Fresh faces Josh Thewlis (left) and Morgan Smithies (right) join England’s line-up
England’s lead strategist, Shaun Wane, is clear about his team’s ambition: they’re laser-focused on bagging a flawless series win against Tonga in the upcoming Saturday match.
Having already bagged victories in St Helens and Huddersfield, England is ahead with a commanding 2-0 lead in the three-match skirmish.
Breaking his earlier stance, Wane has integrated newcomers Josh Thewlis and Morgan Smithies for the curtain-closing bout at Headingley in Leeds.
“Saturday is a must-win for both teams, let’s be real,” Wane conveyed earlier this week. “Securing this victory means the world to us. My players are hungry for it; it’s pretty much all we talk and strategize about. They are utterly committed to seizing this win.”
Praising Tonga’s NRL-tested prowess, he continued, “Don’t get me wrong; I’m well aware of Tonga’s standing as fifth in the world rankings and their roster stacked with NRL talent. Yet, what impresses me is how my team, despite being outmatched in size and bulk, brings their quintessentially English grit to the table.”
Bucking his prior assertions, Wane has tapped two new talents for his squad. Smithies has been transferred to Canberra Raiders after a trophy-winning stint with Wigan, while Thewlis of Warrington has been named the Super League Young Player of the Year.
“It’s invigorating to bring both Morgan and Josh on board,” Wane remarked. “Morgan had a smashing season with Wigan and donned the England jersey quite convincingly earlier this year. Josh, on the other hand, is having a banner year with Warrington.”
Smithies had his inaugural Test appearance during a triumph over France this April, whereas Thewlis has yet to be capped.
Expanding on the fresh additions, Wane stated, “Both of these players bring adaptability to key positions for the third Test. Our crew has weathered a grueling season, and injuries are starting to mount. Strengthening our ranks for the final push is crucial.”
On the spectator front, he added, “I’m thrilled that the Leeds crowd will turn up in droves to cheer us on as we aim to close this series in style.”
Seven World Cup Heroes to Face Off Against France
In a separate series, England has enlisted seven members from their triumphant Wheelchair World Cup squad for this Sunday’s clash with France at the First Direct Arena. The latest recruit is Leeds Rhinos’ Josh Butler, the younger kin of England’s skipper, Tom Halliwell.
Butler’s stellar season performances have earned him the Wheelchair Super League Young Player of the Year accolade.
Tom Coyd, England’s head coach, conveyed his admiration for Butler, stating, “Josh’s inclusion in our line-up is a testament to his standout performances this season. He’s been an asset throughout the year, and it shows in his contributions in our practice camps, including at St George’s Park.”
Rounding out the roster is Wayne Boardman, who will be on standby, ready to jump into the fray should any last-minute changes arise.
England’s Squad for the Day: Tom Halliwell (Leeds Rhinos, Captain), Sebastien Bechara (Catalans Dragons), Jack Brown (North Queensland Cowboys), Josh Butler (Leeds Rhinos), Nathan Collins (Leeds Rhinos), Joe Coyd (London Roosters), Rob Hawkins (Halifax Panthers), Lewis King (London Roosters). On Standby: Wayne Boardman (Halifax Panthers).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about England vs Tonga Series Win
Who is the head coach of England’s rugby team?
The head coach of England’s rugby team is Shaun Wane.
What is the current standing of England vs. Tonga in the series?
England currently holds a 2-0 lead in the three-game series against Tonga.
Who are the new faces added to the England squad for the final match?
The new additions to England’s squad for the final match against Tonga are Josh Thewlis and Morgan Smithies.
What teams did Morgan Smithies and Josh Thewlis play for before joining the England squad?
Morgan Smithies played for Wigan and has moved to Canberra Raiders. Josh Thewlis played for Warrington and has been named the Super League Young Player of the Year.
Are there any injured players in the England squad?
The article suggests that England’s players have endured a long season and there are some minor injuries (“little knocks”), but it does not specify who is injured.
Who are the Wheelchair World Cup winners facing France?
England has named seven players from their Wheelchair World Cup-winning party for the match against France. The names are not specified in the text.
Who is the one addition to the Wheelchair World Cup-winning squad for the match against France?
The one addition is Leeds Rhinos’ Josh Butler, who is also the younger cousin of the England captain Tom Halliwell.
Who is on standby for the Wheelchair World Cup-winning squad?
Wayne Boardman is picked as a ninth player who will be available to join the squad if there are any late withdrawals.
What awards have been won by players Josh Butler and Morgan Smithies?
Josh Butler was rewarded with the Wheelchair Super League Young Player of the Year award. Morgan Smithies impressed earlier this year when he wore the England shirt for the first time and has had a strong season with Wigan.
Where will the final match of the England vs. Tonga series take place?
The final match will take place at Headingley in Leeds.
More about England vs Tonga Series Win
- England Rugby Official Website
- World Rugby Rankings
- NRL Official Website
- Super League Official Website
- Wheelchair Rugby League
- Leeds Rhinos Official Website
- Wigan Warriors Official Website
- Canberra Raiders Official Website
- Warrington Wolves Official Website
- First Direct Arena
10 comments
Yep, that’s my cuz Josh Butler. Family’s proud, you guys have no idea.
“Waned added”? Think ya meant “Wane added”. Proofreading, people!
Wow, England’s really gunning for that clean sweep huh? Shaun Wane sounds like he’s not messing around. Go England!
Anyone knows where i can get tickets for the Leeds match?
Great to see wheelchair rugby getting some spotlight. Josh Butler, the young talent, making waves!
New faces, World Cup winners, head coaches that mean business—this article’s got it all, doesn’t it?
2-0 is good but a 3-0 would be epic, just sayin.
Headingley’s gonna be buzzin this weekend! can’t wait to be part of the crowd.
Haha, Wane’s been watching NRL, huh? Well, Tonga’s got some solid players from our league. Should be a good match!
Thewlis and Smithies, those are some names to watch. Smithies to Canberra Raiders? That’s big news, mate.