Joe Burgess Expected to End England’s Long Wait After Squad Updates
England have announced their 19-man squad for the third and final Ashes Test against Australia at Headingley on Saturday, featuring two changes from the side that lost 14-4 in the second Test.
Squad Announcement and Match Context
Head coach Shaun Wane revealed the squad ahead of the sold-out match in Leeds. England, trailing 2-0 after defeats of 26-6 and 14-4 in the first two Tests at Wembley and Hill Dickinson Stadium, cannot claim the series victory. This final game will see England playing purely for pride, aiming to avoid a 3-0 whitewash on home soil.
Australia’s Approach to the Final Test
Despite earlier hints from Australian coach Kevin Walters that the Kangaroos might rest players, Australia will instead field a full-strength team, determined to complete the whitewash.
Changes to England’s Squad
- Hull KR winger Joe Burgess replaces Dom Young on the wing.
- Leeds Rhinos centre Harry Newman takes the place of Jake Wardle.
If both Burgess and Newman play, every member of England’s 24-man autumn squad will have featured in at least one Test in the series.
"If both of these players take to the pitch, which seems probable, every member of England's 24-man squad this autumn will have participated in at least one of the three Tests."
These substitutions are like-for-like replacements to refresh England’s lineup as they seek to end the series on a positive note.
Author’s Summary
England’s final Ashes Test squad changes aim to salvage pride and bring fresh energy after two heavy series defeats, with Joe Burgess poised to make a significant return.