Rugby League Ashes: Joe Burgess Returns After a Decade
Joe Burgess is set to make his first international rugby appearance in ten years after being included in England’s 19-man squad for the final Ashes Test against Australia. The 31-year-old Hull KR winger last played for England in 2015, during a series against New Zealand.
Comeback Confirmed by Shaun Wane
Head coach Shaun Wane confirmed that Burgess will take the field against the Kangaroos at AMT Headingley in Leeds this Saturday. Burgess’ return caps a notable 2025 season, in which he was a standout figure in Hull KR’s treble-winning run.
"It’s a credit to him, he has a new lease of life at Hull KR," said Wane, who previously coached Burgess at Wigan Warriors. "I am so happy to be able to give him a start. That means something to me."
Burgess on His Return to England Squad
"Yeah, if I knuckled down—I did it once, could do it again. Once you get to 31, you wonder if it’s too late. But I knew I had potential to play again. That has always been the end goal."
Burgess reflected on how his 2025 season has been the best of his life, celebrating victories in both the Challenge Cup and the Super League, and now a call-up to the national team.
"This has been the best year of my life, my first time winning Challenge Cup and Super League. Then being recalled back to England squad, it is an unbelievable year I still have not fully processed."
Team Updates
England have lost the first two matches in the three-game series and are without winger Dom Young, who broke his foot. Meanwhile, Australia’s lineup shows only one adjustment, with captain Isaah Yeo returning to the starting XIII after clearing a head injury assessment.
Author’s Summary
Joe Burgess marks a powerful comeback to international rugby, symbolizing resilience and determination after a decade’s absence from the England squad.