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England struggles with travel issues before Rugby League World Cup

BBC Sport • 1 min read • Latest: Oct 22, 2026, 12:48 PM

Last updated Oct 22, 2026

England struggles with travel issues before Rugby League World Cup

Summary

England's new head coach Brian McDermott expressed frustration over a challenging travel schedule before their Rugby League World Cup opener against Tonga. The team's 30-12 loss has put them in a tough situation, requiring victories over France and Papua New Guinea to have any chance of advancing. McDermott noted that the players had little preparation due to the journey taking almost 48 hours, which limited them to just two full training sessions. The unusual travel route involved stops in London and Sydney before reaching Perth, adding to their exhaustion as they aimed to improve after the defeat against Tonga.

Source Links

BBC Sport

Key Details

•Brian McDermott likens travel to comedy film 'Planes, Trains and Automobiles'.
•England lost 30-12 to Tonga in their World Cup opener.
•To advance, England needs to defeat France on October 24 and Papua New Guinea on October 30.
•Players completed only two full training sessions prior to their match against Tonga.

Latest Updates

12:48 PMBBC Sport — England's travel schedule like Steve Martin comedy - McDermott

What they're saying

"
England were left exhausted before the start of their Rugby League World Cup campaign because of a travel schedule straight out of Planes, Trains and Automobiles, head coach Brian McDermott says.
— BBC Sport

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