Joe Burgess set to end decade-long England wait after squad updates
England have announced their 19-man squad for the third and final Ashes Test against Australia at Headingley this Saturday. The match is already sold out and will be England’s last opportunity to secure a win in this series.
Team announcement and series context
Head coach Shaun Wane confirmed two changes to the squad following the team’s 14-4 loss in the second Test. After defeats of 26-6 and 14-4 in the opening two matches at Wembley and Hill Dickinson Stadium, England trail 2-0 in the series and cannot reclaim the Ashes.
The team now faces the challenge of avoiding a 3-0 whitewash on home soil when they play in Leeds this weekend.
Australia’s strong approach
Contrary to earlier suggestions from head coach Kevin Walters that they might rotate their lineup, the Kangaroos have chosen to field a full-strength team for the final Test, determined to complete a clean sweep.
Squad adjustments and player inclusions
Wane’s two changes from the previous 19-man list include the addition of Hull KR winger Joe Burgess and Leeds Rhinos centre Harry Newman. If both players take the field, every member of England’s initial 24-man autumn squad will have participated in at least one of the three Tests.
- Joe Burgess replaces winger Dom Young.
- Harry Newman steps in for centre Jake Wardle.
Author’s summary
England’s final Ashes Test at Headingley offers redemption after two defeats, with Burgess and Newman potentially closing out a unified team effort to end the series with pride.