England’s Ashes Preparation Begins with Star-Studded Train-On Squad
England Rugby League has officially named a 32-man train-on squad as preparations begin for the highly anticipated 2025 Rugby League Ashes series against Australia.
This preliminary squad features standout performers from Super League, including future NRL players Morgan Gannon and Morgan Knowles, and is the first step towards England’s final team selection for their first Ashes series since 2003.
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2025 England Ashes Fixtures (Confirmed)
- Game 1: October 25 – Wembley Stadium, London
- Game 2: November 1 – Everton Stadium, Liverpool
- Game 3: November 8 – Headingley Stadium, Leeds
Full 2025 England Train-On Squad
Wigan Warriors
- Ethan Havard
- Liam Marshall
- Junior Nsemba
- Brad O’Neill
- Harry Smith
- Luke Thompson
- Jake Wardle
Leeds Rhinos
- Morgan Gannon
- Ash Handley
- Tom Holroyd
- James McDonnell
- Harry Newman
- Mikolaj Oledzki
St Helens
- Daryl Clark
- George Delaney
- Matty Lees
- Morgan Knowles
- Harry Robertson
- Jack Welsby
Warrington Wolves
- Matty Ashton
- Ben Currie
- James Harrison
- Danny Walker
- George Williams
Hull KR
- James Batchelor
- Jez Litten
- Mikey Lewis
- Elliot Minchella
Wakefield Trinity
- Tom Johnstone
- Mike McMeeken
Leigh Leopards
- Robbie Mulhern
- Owen Trout
Squad Analysis and What It Means
This is head coach Shaun Wane’s strongest and most youthful squad in years. Notable inclusions like Harry Newman, Mikey Lewis, and Jake Wardle show a clear shift towards pace and flair. Wane has backed emerging talent while ensuring experience through key selections like George Williams and Luke Thompson.
Expect major headlines if form players like Ash Handley or Mikolaj Oledzki force their way into the final 17. England’s home advantage and stacked Super League talent make this series more competitive than ever.
Australia’s Squad: Yet to Be Announced
The Australian Kangaroos are yet to name their Ashes touring squad following the shock resignation of Mal Meninga, who has taken over as coach of the proposed Perth Bears expansion team.
Stay tuned to Rugby League Zone for breaking news on Australia’s new head coach and squad announcement.
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