Full Breakdown
England Seek Redemption in Opening Rugby League World Cup Clash with Tonga
By Drooid · · How we work
Core Event – England vs Tonga Kick-off in Perth
England’s men’s Rugby League World Cup campaign begins with a match against Tonga at HBF Park in Perth on Oct 17. Kick-off is 10:05 am BST (5:05 pm local). As the first fixture of the 2026 tournament, a win is essential for England to stay in contention for the semi-finals, with only two of the six nations in Pools B and C advancing.
Background & Context
England entered the 2026 World Cup after a loss to Tonga in the 2022 semi-final. The rise of Pacific nations has reshaped the international hierarchy, prompting several top-level NRL players to represent their heritage nations. England appointed Brian McDermott as head coach to introduce a more mobile, second-phase style of play.
Key Figures & Groups
- Brian McDermott – England head coach.
- George Williams – Captain and stand-off, recently signed with the NRL’s Dolphins.
- Harry Smith – Half-back partner to Williams.
- Victor Radley – NRL Grand Final winner, adds leadership in the forwards.
- Herbie Farnworth – Dolphins centre, regarded as one of the game’s top centres.
- Zach Eckersley – Wigan Warriors winger, making his international debut.
- Sam Walters, Hugo Savala, Max King – debutants.
Data & Statistics
- England have faced Tonga six times historically and won every encounter (RFL).
- The most recent meeting was the 2017 World Cup semi-final, a 20-18 England victory in Auckland.
- In a 2023 three-test series, England swept Tonga 3-0, with the last two wins by double digits.
- The squad for Oct 17 includes nine players with NRL experience.
- England’s starting backline features Farnworth, Dom Young and Eckersley; the forward pack includes Radley, Kai Pearce-Paul and Junior Nsemba.
Official Statements & Responses
Coach McDermott said the selection balances experience with agility, noting the team’s “high work-rate” and “strong coordination” are intended to counter Tonga’s physicality. He also highlighted an earlier arrival in Perth to mitigate jet-lag. Captain Williams reflected on the 2022 loss, saying the disappointment offers a learning opportunity and that the squad “has a lot of belief” heading into the opener. Both emphasized the need for a “faultless” performance from the first minute.
Verbatim Quotes
- “It’s definitely been different, I’m not going to tell you all the tricks of what we’ve got planned but it’s been different and enjoyable,” — England coach
- “That was probably the worst loss of my career,” — George Williams, captain
- “Tonga are stacked, NRL stars glittered throughout, so we know what's upon us," Williams said.” — George Williams, captain
What’s Next
After the Tonga clash, England’s pool schedule includes a match against France on Oct 24 and a game versus Papua New Guinea on Oct 30, both Group C fixtures. Success in these encounters will determine whether England progresses to the knockout stage.