Harry Newman has been a consistent presence in England’s line-up for the ongoing test matches against Tonga.
Third Test – England vs Tonga
Location: Headingley Rugby Stadium, Leeds Date: Saturday, November 4 Kick-off: 14:30 GMT
Broadcast Info: Watch live on BBC One and BBC iPlayer; follow live text commentary on the Sport News Center website and mobile app
For Harry Newman, playing in the England jersey at Headingley, his home turf, is a dream realized — a scenario that seemed unlikely just a month prior when doubts clouded his international career prospects.
His inaugural game for England in the test series against Tonga was a family affair, where he was presented his first cap by his dad, an emotionally charged moment that underscored the honor of national representation, encouraged by Coach Shaun Wane.
After proving his mettle in the second test, Newman is poised for his third cap in the concluding Test this Saturday, where England eyes a complete series whitewash over Tonga.
The face-off is set in Headingley, the stomping grounds of the Leeds Rhinos, representing a poignant chapter in the 23-year-old’s comeback saga from a career riddled with injuries and moments of indiscretion.
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“The last few weeks have been incredibly momentous for me,” Newman shared with BBC Radio Leeds, “playing in front of my family, the special moment receiving my cap from my dad, it’s all been remarkable.”
Once touted as an England shoo-in, Newman’s trajectory was derailed by a severe leg fracture in 2020, compounded by recurring hamstring woes.
His path to international play hit another snag due to his own misconduct.
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Previously, Newman’s chances of selection had been jeopardized by his on-pitch behavior, notably called out by Wane in the lead-up to the Tonga series.
Following an altercation with Leeds teammate Tom Holroyd and a disciplinary incident against Catalans Dragons, Newman was off Wane’s consideration list, with the coach stating, “I will not tolerate that. Harry is incredibly talented but needs to work on this aspect
