England names World Cup squad with Lewis as unused reserve
Lewis made the England squad but sits out Saturday's opener against Tonga.
England half-back Mikey Lewis was named in the squad for the Rugby League World Cup but dropped to non-playing reserve for the opening match in Perth on Saturday. Harry Smith and captain George Williams will start in the half-back roles against Tonga.
Coach Brian McDermott said Lewis and Williams play similarly, making Smith the "easy pick" for variety. McDermott backed Lewis's temperament, saying he had "more than enough humility to add to the group."
England also named fullback AJ Brimson ahead of Jack Welsby, selecting four heritage players qualified through family background. The team faces Tonga on Saturday, then France and Papua New Guinea in the group stage.
- Tonga in Perth
- Opening opponent
- Saturday
- Match date
- Brian McDermott
- Head coach
- AJ Brimson over Jack Welsby
- Reserve fullback choice
Why it mattersThe squad choices reveal McDermott's tactical priorities and show which players will lead England's World Cup campaign in a rebuild under new coaching.
AustraliaThe tournament is being held in Australia, with matches in Perth and Wollongong, giving local rugby league fans direct access to see England's squad tested against Pacific sides.
Corroborated by7news.com.au·theguardian.com
✓ Claims checked against the source and corrected before publish. checked 2 h ago
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