Predicted All-Stars line-up: Wakefield and Hull FC dominance, KR man to miss out

Although Combined Nations All-Stars coach Ellery Hanley has admitted he has suffered at least 16 setbacks ahead of Saturday's match against England, he still has plenty of selection headaches around his starting 17.

Wakefield's David Fifita was a late addition to Hanley's side, and you'd imagine the big bopper to be at least named on the bench after the hype built around bringing him into the setup.

One player who is a shoo-in to be playing is Hull KR's Shaun Kenny-Dowall, the former New Zealand international will captain Hanley's side, and his fine club form has been rewarded as he is set to lead out the All-Stars at the Halliwell Jones Stadium. Kenny-Dowall will also be ready to come up against his friend and edge partner Ryan Hall, the Rovers duo have built a destructive partnership since 2021, but will have to put their friendship aside this weekend as they aim to get one over each other.

One key area that Hanley has options in is the dummy-half role. Due to England's Daryl Clark being named for the All-Stars, it's hard to see past him starting at hooker, but Hanley may opt for a black and white over a red and white as Clark's understudy.

As good as Matt Parcell is, Joe Lovodua will provide Hanley with versatility off the bench, as the Hull FC man has been used in several roles so far in 2022. Expect Clark to play big minutes at the weekend, which may see Parcell omitted from the squad.

Again, like Clark, Kruise Leeming is another eligible Englishman in Hanley's side and will be ready to make a statement in front of Shaun Wane to put his best foot forward in nailing down a World Cup spot at the end of the year. The biggest challenge for England is trying to dominate and control the All-Stars formidable pack. Matt