AJ Brimson Set for England Debut as Jack Welsby Dropped for Second Test Against Australia

Shaun Wane Makes Major Changes Ahead of Second Test at Liverpool

England head coach Shaun Wane has made bold changes to his lineup for the second Rugby League Ashes Test against Australia, with AJ Brimson set to make his international debut and Jack Welsby surprisingly omitted from the squad.

The second Test, which kicks off at 14:30 GMT on Saturday at Everton’s Hill Dickinson Stadium in Liverpool, will be broadcast live on BBC One and BBC iPlayer.

Brimson to Debut at Full-Back After Switching Allegiance from Australia

Brisbane-born AJ Brimson, who recently switched allegiance from Australia to England through his mother’s London roots, will start at full-back in place of Jack Welsby. The 26-year-old Gold Coast Titans playmaker had been named 18th man for the opening Test at Wembley, which England lost 26–6.

Brimson’s inclusion marks his first appearance for England since declaring for the nation earlier this year. Known for his explosive speed and agility, he’s expected to bring fresh attacking flair and positional intelligence to England’s back line.

Welsby Dropped After Wembley Struggles

The decision to drop Jack Welsby — one of Super League’s top performers and a consistent figure in Wane’s previous squads — comes after criticism of his defensive lapse during the first Test. Welsby was caught out as Australia’s Angus Crichton scored their second try, contributing to a disappointing defensive display by the home side.

Wane acknowledged after the Wembley defeat that changes were inevitable.

“I needed to make some changes to the side that lost last week at Wembley and I have done that,” said the England boss. “The beauty of having such a strong squad is that we can bring in real talent for this weekend. But we simply need to be better this time around.”

Harry Smith and Morgan Smithies Recalled

Harry Smith, the Wigan half-back who had featured in England’s previous six internationals before the Australia series, has been recalled to the 19-man squad after sitting out the opening Test.

He replaces John Bateman, who has been struggling with illness. Morgan Smithies, the Canberra Raiders forward who helped his club secure the NRL Minor Premiership, is also brought back to add aggression and energy to England’s pack.

Kallum Watkins also returns to the squad, while Ethan Havard drops out after a quiet performance at Wembley. Wane’s new selections suggest an emphasis on mobility, power, and sharper defensive pressure to counter Australia’s forward dominance.

England’s 19-Man Squad to Face Australia

England squad: AJ Brimson, Daryl Clark, Herbie Farnworth, Tom Johnstone, Morgan Knowles, Matty Lees, Mikey Lewis, Jez Litten, Mike McMeeken, Mikolaj Oledzki, Kai Pearce-Paul, Harry Smith, Morgan Smithies, Owen Trout, Alex Walmsley, Jake Wardle, Kallum Watkins, George Williams, Dom Young.

Australia Make One Change as Captain Ruled Out

Australia, coached by Kevin Walters, have also been forced into a change. Captain Isaah Yeo has been ruled out following a concussion, with Lindsay Collins stepping into the starting lineup. The Kangaroos will aim to clinch the series in Liverpool after their commanding win in London.

Wane Demands Response: “We Need to Be Better”

Speaking ahead of the crucial clash, Wane stressed the importance of resilience and composure.

“I want us to show the very best of us — to play at the level I know we can and ultimately level this Ashes series,” he said.

With the series poised at 1–0 to Australia, England face a must-win situation to keep their Ashes hopes alive before the final Test at Headingley on 8 November.

Brimson’s Selection Signals England’s New Era

Brimson’s selection symbolizes a new chapter for England rugby league. His experience in the NRL and his dynamic versatility are viewed as valuable assets for Wane’s evolving squad. The dual-qualified star has long been admired for his commitment and professionalism — and England fans will now get their first look at what he can offer on the international stage.

As England look to bounce back from their Wembley setback, all eyes will be on Brimson to see whether he can inject the spark England’s backline desperately needs.