Wane Makes Two Changes to England Squad for Final Ashes Test
England coach Shaun Wane has adjusted his 19-man squad ahead of Saturday’s third and last Ashes Test against Australia. Joe Burgess from Hull KR and Harry Newman from Leeds Rhinos are both set for their first England caps in this autumn series, joining the squad this week.
Burgess and Newman come in as replacements for the injured Dom Young, who broke his foot during last week’s 14-4 loss in the second Test, and Wigan Warriors' Jake Wardle. Burgess, originally from Wigan, will be making his first England appearance in ten years, having last played in the 2015 series victory over New Zealand. Newman participated in England’s 2-0 series win over Samoa last year.
Leigh Leopards forward Owen Trout and St Helens hooker Daryl Clark, who were the 18th and 19th men in the previous Test, might also be reconsidered for selection. John Bateman remains out with an ankle injury sustained before the second Test.
Determined to End Series on a High
With Australia already clinching the Ashes series with one match to spare, Wane emphasized his team’s focus on finishing strong at a sold-out AMT Headingley on Saturday.
“Of course, we are disappointed not to be going into this final game with the opportunity to win the Ashes, but the goal now is to come away from the series with a victory,” said Wane.
“We did a lot of good things last week, but ultimately, we need to be even better if we want to get a win this weekend.”
Author’s Summary
Shaun Wane changes England’s squad with two fresh faces aiming to end the Ashes series positively despite Australia’s prior series win.