Brian McDermott has named his 23-player England squad for the 2026 Rugby League World Cup, with Mikey Lewis included and Jake Connor left out.
It is the most consequential selection call of McDermott’s tenure, and the one most likely to be debated. Connor’s omission follows a similar decision in the previous cycle.
Lewis is a playmaker of a different profile: younger, composed in the halves and comfortable taking responsibility for tempo. He will be expected to lead England’s attack rather than merely supplement it.
The squad reflects a wider philosophy — control, discipline and forward-led play — and gives the coach a side he believes can manage a knockout tournament.