NRL star sends Ashes message to Shaun Wane with stunning comeback win

One NRL star will have caught the eye of England head coach Shaun Wane after their incredible showing in a huge comeback win.

That man is AJ Brimson, a name that might be unfamiliar to those who have watched England in recent years and for good reason too. Brimson is Australian-born and previously represented the Aussies in the 9s World Cup.

However, the Gold Coast Titans playmaker made an appeal to the International Rugby League board to change his nationality and be registered eligible to play for England, who he qualifies for through his mother.

The IRL tribunal approved that earlier this week meaning Brimson will be available to be named by Wane in this year’s Ashes series, and the NRL flyer smashed his first audition.

It all looked to be going wrong for the Titans whose head coach Des Hasler is under some pressure at the moment, but Brimson was key in leading his side from 20-0 down to land a famous 24-20 win with a message well and truly sent to the England selectors.

AJ Brimson leads brilliant NRL comeback in first game since England nationality swap

Shaun Wane has previously selected Australian-born players with Victor Radley being the most notable example and one of the NRL players who is very likely to be in action against the Aussies later this year, but could Brimson be another?

He is primarily a full-back but would offer cover in the halves as well and his talent is clear for all to see, as today’s comeback win over Newcastle Knights showed.

After going 20-0 down inside 30 minutes, the Titans hit back through Phillip Sami who scored one either side of half time but it was Brimson who scored the key tries. His 65th minute score made it a two-point game but he then bagged the winner in the 77th minute to cap off an incredible comeback.

He played at stand-off for the game which shows his versatility considering he has Origin appearances at full-back. Of course, he is now ineligible for Origin selection now that he has opted to represent England.

Brimson made 128 metres and also kicked for over 200 metres whilst forcing a drop-out as well, playing a starring role in the win and certainly giving Shaun Wane food for thought.

Jack Welsby has had the full-back position on lock since Sam Tomkins’ international retirement whilst the halves pairing of George Williams and Harry Smith has proven hard to break, but Brimson has ensured that he’s in the frame and more performances like this mean he cannot be ignored.

Brimson completes the comeback! 🤯#NRLKnightsTitans pic.twitter.com/3mZXqmhSOm

— NRL (@NRL) May 9, 2025