Shaun Wane names England squad to face Combined Nations All Stars

Shaun Wane has named his England squad to face Combined Nations All Stars this Saturday in a mid-season international test.

It will be England’s first game of 2022 and act as preparation ahead of the upcoming Rugby League World Cup.

Wane’s side face France, Greece and Samoa in Group A in the tournament later this year. They kick-off the World Cup on October 15 against Samoa at Newcastle’s St James’ Park.

Catalans hooker Michael McIlorum has been included in the squad. He last represented England during the 2013 Rugby League World Cup. Team-mates Mike McMeeken and Sam Tomkins have also been called up, with the latter as captain.

There’s a call-up too for the uncapped St Helens’ second-row Joe Batchelor. St Helens team-mates Morgan Knowles, Jonny Lomax and Mark Percival miss out through injury. Jack Welsby is one of five Saints included and will make his international debut.

Five Warrington players have been included, including half-back George Williams. Winger Matty Ashton has been called into the set-up for the first time. He has previously represented England Knights.

Head coach Wane said: “Sam epitomises everything that a captain should be – a natural leader who’s always in the thick of the action. He’s a very smart player.

“I’ve every confidence in every player selected. Some need no introduction and have earned a recall, others are new to the squad and are also in on merit. They all have the ability to perform at this level and this is their chance to show myself and England supporters what they can do.”

Matty Ashton (Warrington Wolves), Joe Batchelor (St Helens), John Bateman (Wigan Warriors), Mike Cooper (Warrington Wolves), Liam Farrell (Wigan Warriors), Ryan Hall (Hull KR), Matty Lees (St Helens), Michael