England rugby league head coach Shaun Wane has declared that his team is in “make or break” territory as they prepare for Saturday’s second Ashes Test against Australia at Hill Dickinson Stadium, Everton. Kick-off is at 14:30 GMT, with live coverage on BBC One, iPlayer, and the BBC Sport website and app.
Following a heavy 26-6 defeat in the opening Test at Wembley, Wane has made three changes to his 19-man matchday squad in a bid to revive England’s campaign. Speaking to the media, Wane called the first Test loss “heartbreaking”, emphasizing the need for a more physical and cohesive display.
“It didn’t look like a Test match to me [at Wembley]. It wasn’t physical — they were better in many areas. This week has to look like a real Test match,” Wane said.
Key Selection Decisions
Wane’s biggest challenge has been balancing Super League and NRL talent while finding the right combination in pivotal positions.
AJ Brimson Replaces Jack Welsby at Full-Back
One of the headline changes is the selection of AJ Brimson at full-back, replacing St Helens’ versatile Jack Welsby. Brimson, 27, switched his international allegiance from Australia to England in May. With experience playing for the Gold Coast Titans and Queensland, his pace, support play, and defensive ability are expected to inject a new attacking dimension for England.
“The way AJ has trained and what he brings to a team has been outstanding. I’m excited to see him,” Wane added, defending the choice amid criticism of favouring Super League players over NRL-based stars.
Half-Back and Hooker Headaches
England’s halves and hooker positions remain a focal point. The exclusion of Super League Man of Steel winner Jake Connor has intensified competition between:
- George Williams (Warrington)
- Harry Smith (Wigan)
- Mikey Lewis (Hull KR)
Wane has indicated that Harry Smith will likely occupy the traditional number seven role to address England’s disjointed attacking play from the first Test. Meanwhile, Lewis could feature from the interchange bench alongside Jez Litten at number nine.
This adjustment may see Daryl Clark, who scored England’s only try in the opener, miss out. Additional swaps include Morgan Smithies and a rejuvenated Kallum Watkins replacing Ethan Havard and the injured John Bateman.
Stakes and Context
With only one Test remaining before a potential series-deciding third match, Wane is under pressure to deliver a strong, physical, and cohesive performance. The series has already highlighted Australia’s attacking firepower, particularly from Reece Walsh, and England must capitalize on improvements in set completions, kick returns, and defensive structure.
“We got beat in a Test match. We got beat badly. It is part of being a head coach… It doesn’t bother me in the slightest,” Wane said, demonstrating his resolve.
England vs Australia: Key Match Information
- Date: Saturday, 1 November 2025
- Venue: Hill Dickinson Stadium, Everton
- Kick-off: 14:30 GMT
- Coverage: BBC One, iPlayer, BBC Sport website and app
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