Rugby League Ashes “needs to continue” as Australian head coach outlines key reason

Australian head coach Kevin Walters has called for the rugby league Ashes to continue despite the relatively one-sided nature of the series so far.

England were blown away at Wembley and then fell away in the second half at Everton, with the series already wrapped up before we get to Headingley this weekend.

The worrying thing about England’s two losses is that Australia have not been especially great and whilst the same can be said for England, the Kangaroos certainly have more scope for improvement.

With a Rugby League World Cup being held down under in 2026, it seems the gap between England and Australia is only widening with the lack of an intense competition such as State of Origin meaning English players are under-cooked in terms of big game experience, relative to the Kangaroos.

That would be one reason why the rugby league Ashes should once again become a regular fixture, to help England become more competitive, however, Australia head coach Kevin Walters has cited another reason.

Will the Rugby League Ashes return?

“It’s got to happen again,” Walters said on SEN Breakfast Radio in Australia, with the former player recalling the fact Australia used to tour every two years.

Walters was part of the Australian side that won the 1992 Ashes against Great Britain and again featured in the 194 Kangaroos Tour, though he only played once and didn’t play in any of the Ashes matches.

“It’s been a great experience from the players and the fans here are completely different,” explained Walters, adding: “The supporters and the whole part of touring with 24 players and 12 staff has been (excellent).”

As for the viability of the series returning, Walters is keen on it becoming a feature of the international calendar, not necessarily so England can improve but more for the memories that his players will create.

He argued: “It needs to continue because I’m a huge fan (of) the experiences you share and the lifelong friendships you make on these tours. It’s really special.”

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