Following reports that the 2025 Ashes could be played in England, Rugby League Commercial has provided an update.
Initial reports Down Under surfaced that Australia were exploring the possibility of touring England in 2025 in a historic Ashes tour, as opposed to England being the touring nation.
Following a meeting held by the sport’s governing body, International Rugby League, in August 2023, it was announced that England Men’s and Women’s teams would head Down Under to take part in the first Ashes series since 2002.
This morning’s reports would go on to suggest that England was ‘more than likely’ the host for the 2025 series with Australia set on a three-Test series in the Northern Hemisphere.
There has now been an update provided by the sport’s commercial branch, Rugby League Commercial, and it’s positive news for English fans.
Rugby League Commercial confirm Ashes talks have been held
Credit: Matthew Lewis/SWpix.com.
A statement from RL Commercial has confirmed that ‘initial conversations’ have been held with the Australian Rugby League Commission about an Ashes series held in England.
Following the success of last year’s Tonga series and the strong reception to the first Test against Samoa, it could be yet another big boost for Rugby League in England.
The statement read: “RL Commercial can confirm initial conversations have been held with the ARLC about the possibility of an historic Ashes Series being played in England in 2025.
“We are excited by the possibility of bringing the Kangaroos to these shores for a three-match series for the first time in over 20 years, and we are starting work on the feasibility of such a tour.
“We believe this would be welcomed by our England team, by British Rugby League supporters, by the British sporting public, and by the current generation of Australia players who would relish the opportunity to follow in the footsteps of so many great players of the past.”
Australia had been scheduled to play a three-Test series in England in 2020 but that was curtailed due to the Covid pandemic meaning it is now eight years since England last played a home game against Australia.
Prior to these talks being held, the international calendar had England to tour Australia in 2025 with the Kangaroos slated to return to England in 2028. Of course, the 2026 World Cup will also be held in Australia and Papua New Guinea with both England Men’s and Women’s sides set to feature.
