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Australia and England Announce Rugby League World Cup Squads

Australia and England have revealed their squads for the Rugby League World Cup, with notable inclusions and omissions from each side.

7 October 2026Tagblick Newsdesk

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Australia and England Announce Rugby League World Cup Squads — Photo: Fleets · Wikimedia Commons · CC BY-SA 4.0

Isaah Yeo has been named captain of Australia’s men's Rugby League World Cup squad as he delays pectoral surgery. Coach Kevin Walters introduced a 23-player lineup that includes six debutants, among them Sydney Roosters halfback Sam Walker and Newcastle's Bradman Best. The squad also sees the return of James Tedesco. Walker will face competition from Cameron Munster, Tom Dearden, and Mitchell Moses for a place in the team's halves during the tournament.

In a recent selection announcement, Kevin Walters indicated that the composition of the Kangaroos suggests a new era for Test football. While some surprise selections have been noted, Walters is expected to lead the team in pursuit of World Cup glory. The changes also reflect the team's evolving strategy and approach to international competition.

England has also unveiled its Rugby League World Cup squad, with coach Brian McDermott making significant decisions. One notable omission is Jake Connor, who has been left out for the second consecutive year. McDermott justified this choice, stating that the selected players are better suited to the strategic game plan designed to compete against top teams.

The England squad will begin their World Cup campaign against Tonga on 17 October. The team looks to leverage its depth and experience, aiming to navigate the tough competition ahead.

In addition to the Australian and English squads, Fiji, Samoa, and Tonga have announced their men's squads for the 2026 Rugby League World Cup. These teams are working to finalize preparations as the tournament approaches, which is set to kick off in Australia next week.

The Cook Islands and Papua New Guinea have also named their mixed squads featuring players from the NRL and Super League for the upcoming World Cup. All participating nations are finalizing their rosters as the anticipation builds for the tournament.

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