Connor out, Lewis in as England name Rugby League World Cup squad
England's Rugby League World Cup squad has been announced, featuring Mikey Lewis while excluding Jake Connor. Head coach Brian McDermott opted for Lewis to join George Williams and Harry Smith as the team's half-back options.
Why it matters
The selection process for national sports teams often sparks debate regarding performance metrics versus coaching preference, impacting team dynamics and fan expectations.
Image source, SWPix Image caption, Jake Connor missed out on an England squad place for last year's Ashes, for which Mikey Lewis was selected
Jake Connor has been left out of England's Rugby League World Cup squad, with Mikey Lewis beating him to a place.
Leeds Rhinos half-back Connor, the 2025 Super League Man of Steel, had been expected to make the final cut after being talked up by England head coach Brian McDermott and enjoying a strong domestic season.
The 31-year-old provided more assists - 43 - than anyone else during the Super League campaign just completed.
But Hull KR's Lewis, who endured an inconsistent season, has done enough to convince McDermott that he should join captain George Williams, the Warrington stand-off, and Wigan's Harry Smith as half-back options.
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