The top 5 contenders to be England’s props for the World Cup

With the World Cup approaching at the end of 2021, there are already debates circulating about who will be in Shaun Wane’s thinking. Here are the top five contenders to take the number eight and ten England shirts.

Alex Walmsley

One of St Helens’ most important forwards in recent seasons, Alex Walmsley will be key for England at this year’s World Cup. A rampaging runner with a brilliant offload, the Saints man is certainly a player that can take the game to the bigger packs.

Luke Thompson

Thompson is currently enjoying life in the NRL with Canterbury. After a rocky start, the former Saints prop has settled in Down Under, making a name for himself as an incredibly hard-hitting, powerful forward. Will surely be reunited with Walmsley in the England pack come the end of the year.

Liam Watts

He’s been on the cusp of England selection for the past few seasons after making the move to Castleford so Liam Watts will be striving for greatness with the Tigers in 2021. One of the most devastating running props in Super League, Watts has been challenged by Wane to be more consistent – if he can manage that then the ex-Hull forward will surely be in the reckoning.

Matty Lees

The third contender with a St Helens connection, Matty Lees took over from the departing Luke Thompson in the Saints front row in 2020 and hasn’t looked back since. Still only 23, Lees would be a welcome addition to Wane’s side.

Tom Burgess

An ever-present for South Sydney Rabbitohs in the NRL, Tom Burgess has already earned 25 caps for England and will surely add to those in 2021. Much more lucky with injuries as opposed to twin brother George, Tom is likely to lead the line for the national side and will do so with vim and vigour.