
With the Super League season now past it’s mid-point, thoughts are beginning to look forward to the England international fixtures which are scheduled for the rest of the season.
England have a big international programme scheduled over the next two years in a boost for the international game. They begin with a mid-season international against France at the end of June.
This is followedfollowed by a two match series against Samoa, in which England will be keen to avenge their agonising exit at the hands of the island nation in the 2021 Rugby League World Cup.
England Head Coach is a man on a mission as he aims to guide the nation to international success. England ended the 2023 season on a high, defeating Tonga three nil in a three match test series.
Now, with the game against looming on the horizon, Wane has discussed his hopes for the national side.
Shaun Wane identifies 3 players who will make a difference for England

Credit: Imago Images
England travel to France for a mid-season international on the 29th of June, with the double header scheduled to celebrate the 90th anniversary of Rugby League in France.
The game also provides England with a valuable opportunity to play a competitive match they build towards the 2026 Rugby League World Cup, which is expected to be held in Australia.
Speaking to the Sportsman YouTube channelYouTube channel ahead of the French game, Wane identified the three players he expects to make an impact for the national side. Wane said:
“I do feel it’s the start of the next phase for England. When I finish in a few years’ time, I’m going to leave it in a really good spot.
“Getting Harry started, Mikey Lewis and Harry Newman started as well, it will be them taking England forward for the next few years, I feel like I’ve done my job.
“There’ll be a few more in this French Test and then some more games with young kids, what’s coming through and that’s a credit to the Super League teams and Super League coaches doing a great job.
“I always think we can do better at youth development but we’ve got some quality players coming through as well.”
Wane looking to build for World Cup

Credit: Imago Images
Wane took charge of the England side in 2020 and guided the side to the semi-finals of the World Cup in 2022. England crashed out following a heart-breaking 27-26 defeat against Samoa.
Wane wants to use the opportunity to build towards the Ashes series in 2025, before the World Cup the following year.
“We’ve got an Ashes next year and then a World Cup and I’m having to build on that as well. If I think a player’s not going to be in my thoughts in the World Cup, then it’s going to be hard for me to deal with them this year.
“So it’s really important that we have our eyes wide open and understanding that we need to be strong in a few years time and that’s the way I’m gonna pick the French team, and that’s how I’m gonna pick the Samoa team.”

Stu
June 17, 2024 at 8:54 pm
Harry Newman!? England!? Hahahahahaha
Joking surely
W BALL
June 18, 2024 at 8:23 am
What about Jack Welsby ??