George Williams, following in the footsteps of ex-Wigan comrade Sam Tomkins, leads England into battle.
Third Clash – England faces Tonga
Location: The historic Headingley Rugby Ground in Leeds When: Saturday, November 4 Time to kickoff: 14:30 in good old GMT
How to catch the action: Tune in live on BBC One and BBC iPlayer. Keep up with live texts on the Sport News Center digital platforms.
England’s skipper George Williams makes a triumphant return for the series’ climax against Tonga this Saturday, his two-game suspension now a thing of the past.
Stepping into the shoes of the first Test’s standout player Mikey Lewis, Williams is ready to shine in the 19-strong player lineup.
Shaun Wane, the chief strategist for England, has shuffled his pack ahead of the final showdown with Tonga, as England sits pretty with a 2-0 lead.
Enter Ben Currie of Warrington, ready to debut in the series.
Fresh from his international outing in April against the French, prop Tyler Dupree is also joining the ranks.
“The reintroduction of George as the team’s captain is a huge boost. Mikey [Lewis] did us proud previously, but George reclaiming his spot was always part of the plan post-suspension,” declared coach Wane.
He’s banking on the selected squad to seal the series with panache, anticipating a robust Leeds crowd.
The cause for Williams’ suspension? A contentious shoulder charge during Warrington’s intense Super League playoff against St Helens.
Robbie Mulhern is prepped to don the England jersey for the first time since 2018, fresh off his Challenge Cup victory with the Leigh Leopards.
Even with the series firmly in hand, Wane admits his team is hell-bent on a flawless 3-0 whitewash.
Rounding out the week’s call-ups, Morgan Smithies and Warrington’s Josh Thewlis have also made the squad.
Post-Wigan, Smithies is now tied up with the Canberra Raiders of the NRL.
“Handing everyone on my initial roster a shot during this series has been incredibly satisfying,” Wane noted.
He praised Robbie, Tyler, and Ben for their stellar club performances, meriting their selection against Tonga.
However, the England camp will miss the presence of Sydney Roosters’ Victor Radley, the skilled Toby King, and fleet-footed Tommy Makinson due to injuries.
Behold the England Squad: Featuring stars from the Wolves, Tigers, Rabbitohs, Giants, Dragons, Leopards, Rhinos, Raiders, and Saints.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about rugby suspension
What was the reason for George Williams’ suspension?
George Williams’ suspension stemmed from a shoulder charge he made during Warrington’s Betfred Super League play-off defeat by St Helens.
Who replaced George Williams during his suspension?
Mikey Lewis took over as the captain and played in George Williams’ absence.
How is England performing in the series against Tonga?
England is leading the series 2-0, making them the favorites to win the series.
Are there any notable newcomers in the England squad for the final Test?
Yes, Ben Currie, Tyler Dupree, and Robbie Mulhern are set to make appearances in the squad, with Robbie Mulhern returning to the England team after a hiatus since 2018.
Is England aiming for a clean sweep in the series?
Yes, despite having an unassailable lead, England is “obsessed” with claiming a 3-0 series clean sweep according to coach Shaun Wane.
Which players are absent from the England squad due to injuries?
Sydney Roosters’ Victor Radley, centre Toby King, and winger Tommy Makinson are unavailable due to injuries.
