Players make late bids for England squad ahead of Rugby League World Cup
Sky Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 14, 2026, 1:46 PM
Last updated Aug 14, 2026

With two months remaining until the Rugby League World Cup in Australia, attention is on potential England squad additions. Coach Brian McDermott has already named a 38-man performance squad, but speculation grows around players like Leeds Rhinos’ Jake Connor and Tom Holroyd. Holroyd has shown impressive form recently, prompting calls for his inclusion. Similarly, Leigh Leopards’ Umyla Hanley has made a strong return from injury, raising his profile for a national call-up. Both players have the opportunity to prove themselves in upcoming fixtures before the final squad announcement.
- •England's Rugby League World Cup campaign starts in October.
- •Brian McDermott announced a 38-man performance squad.
- •Jake Connor returns to contention after seven years away.
- •Tom Holroyd's recent form heightens his selection chances.
- •Umyla Hanley's strong performances increase his visibility for the squad.
"We are just two months out from the Rugby League World Cup and with that in mind, every Super League player will have a place on the plane to Australia in the back of their mind.
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