It’s been 22 long years since the Ashes Rugby League rivalry between England and Australia last lit up the sporting world. The drought finally ends this Saturday at Wembley Stadium — and no one feels the weight of that moment more deeply than England’s head coach, Shaun Wane.

When Wane was appointed in early 2020, his first dream assignment was this very series — a chance to bring the Ashes home. But fate had other plans. The COVID-19 pandemic halted everything, canceling what would’ve been a historic autumn showdown. Now, five years later, Wane finally gets his shot at redemption — and perhaps, history.

“A Wait That Felt Like Forever”

For Wane and many in the English setup, the long wait to face the Kangaroos again has felt endless. England hasn’t won an Ashes series since 1970, a staggering 55 years of dominance by Australia that has defined rugby league’s international hierarchy.

“Many of us feared we’d never experience an Ashes series in our careers,” Wane admitted in a recent interview. “This is not just a game — it’s a chance to reclaim something we lost decades ago.”

And the fans seem to agree. The upcoming Test at Wembley is expected to draw one of the largest crowds in England’s rugby league history, while the next fixtures at Goodison Park and Headingley Stadium have already sold out months in advance.

Mixing Experience with Firepower

Wane’s squad selection reflects a careful balance — a blend of veteran grit and youthful energy. Among the most talked-about inclusions is Alex Walmsley, the 35-year-old prop from St Helens R.F.C., who returns to the England jersey after eight long years.

“I honestly thought my international career was done,” Walmsley laughed. “But this call-up means the world. I’m one of the few who remembers that 2003 series clearly. Hopefully, I’ve still got enough left to make a difference.”

Joining him in the veteran ranks is Kallum Watkins, returning to the national setup for the first time since 2022, alongside Joe Burgess, who last wore the England shirt a decade ago. While not all will feature in the first Test, their inclusion reflects Wane’s belief in experience as a weapon against Australia’s high-pressure game.

The Rising Star: Mikey Lewis

Then there’s Mikey Lewis — the young gun from Hull Kingston Rovers who has taken Super League by storm. Lewis, just 23, is expected to bring speed and unpredictability — two things that can unsettle the well-drilled Australians.

“Lewis has something special,” said Wane. “He plays without fear. And sometimes, that’s what you need against a powerhouse like Australia.”

The English coach’s strategy is clear — combine the wisdom of old warriors like Walmsley and Watkins with the flair of emerging stars like Lewis. The hope? To find that elusive balance that can finally topple the Kangaroos.

A New Generation With Australian Experience

Interestingly, the 2025 England squad features a record nine players with NRL experience — a stark contrast to the 2003 era when English representation in Australia’s elite competition was minimal.

Names like Herbie Farnworth, who grew up near Burnley and once turned down Manchester United trials to pursue rugby league, have become household names in Australia. His performances for the Dolphins have been outstanding, while John Bateman continues to prove his worth on the world stage.

And then there’s AJ Brimson — a new face who has caused quite a stir. Born in Australia but eligible through his London-born mother, Brimson represented Queensland in State of Origin, but has now pledged allegiance to England.

“I’ve always loved England,” Brimson said. “It’s a huge honour to wear this jersey. I know I have to earn respect, especially being an Aussie joining the English side, but the excitement is beyond words.”

The Emotional Edge

Adding another layer to this story is the return of Sam Tomkins — not as a player, but as part of Wane’s support staff. The English legend, known for his fiery passion, recently sparked headlines by saying:

“This means more to us than it does to them.”

That sentiment resonates deeply. For Australia, this might just be another series. For England, it’s a legacy on the line — a chance to end a 55-year drought and redefine their place in rugby league history.

As NRL life goes on for most Australians after the series, the stakes are different for England. A victory here would not just be symbolic — it could reignite national pride, boost domestic league popularity, and finally close a decades-long chapter of near misses.

Final Thoughts

When the whistle blows at Wembley, the echoes of 1970 will hang in the air. Shaun Wane’s men are not just playing a match — they’re fighting time, history, and the weight of 22 years. Whether they succeed or not, the return of the Ashes has already reignited the soul of English rugby league.

For fans across the world, this weekend promises passion, pride, and possibly — just possibly — an upset for the ages.

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