Brad O’Neill among host of Super League’s young guns called up for England

6 months ago 64

BRAD O’NEILL heads the list of Super League’s young talent that has been rewarded with an England call-up.

The Wigan hooker has been joined by St Helens’ prop George Delaney, as SunSport revealed, and Hull KR loose forward Elliot Minchella for Saturday’s trip to France.

Elliot Minchella gives instructions to team-mates during the Betfred Challenge Cup Semi Final match between Wigan Warriors and Hull KR at Headingley Stadium on July 23, 2023 in Leeds, England. (Photo by Jess Hornby/Getty Images)

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Castleford’s Sam Wood is another surprise name to have made the party, along with Huddersfield’s Oliver Wilson, Warrington’s Matty Nicholson and Leeds’ James McDonnell.

Yet despite shocking many with their current fifth-placed position in Super League, Salford have been overlooked.

However, as Wane is looking towards the 2026 World Cup for this Toulouse Test, the likes of Marc Sneyd and Kallum Watkins lost out on age grounds, with them being in contention for the end-of-season series against Samoa, when NRL-based players are also eligible.

Skipper George Williams and full back ace Jack Welsby are included, as is Hull KR’s Mikey Lewis after he starred against Tonga last year – and club boss Willie Peters believes international experience makes him better.

Wane said: “I’m pleased with the squad we’ve brought together and there is a strong balance between some more experienced international players and some newer faces to the England squad.

“All of the new players who have come in have impressed me with their performances in the Super League this season and have earned their spot.

“Having travelled to face France back in 2021, we know they will offer us a stern test which is exactly what we need ahead of the two-game series against Samoa this autumn.”

ENGLAND SQUAD TO FACE FRANCE

Ben Currie (Warrington), George Delaney (St Helens), Tyler Dupree (Wigan), Ash Handley (Leeds), James Harrison (Warrington), Tom Johnstone (Catalans), Matty Lees (St Helens), Mikey Lewis, Jez Litten (both Hull KR), James McDonnell (Leeds), Elliot Minchella (Hull KR), Harry Newman (Leeds), Matty Nicholson (Warrington), Brad O’Neill, Harry Smith, Luke Thompson (all Wigan), Jack Welsby (St Helens), George Williams (Warrington), Oliver Wilson (Huddersfield), Sam Wood (Castleford)

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