England keeps same men's squad for France clash after Tonga defeat

England coach Brian McDermott has named an unchanged 19-man squad for the upcoming Rugby League World Cup match against France in Perth this Saturday. This decision follows a 30-12 defeat by Tonga in the opening game, which is England's first loss ever against Tonga and puts their semi-final hopes in danger. AJ Brimson keeps his place at full-back after scoring one of England's tries against Tonga, while Jack Welsby is named among the interchanges. Luke Thompson continues at prop since Morgan Knowles remains unfit due to an injury picked up before the Tonga game. Harry Smith and captain George Williams keep their half-back roles, and Mikey Lewis stays out of the team. England must win their next two matches, against France and against Papua New Guinea on 30 October, and likely need large margins of victory to reach the semi-finals.

Women's Team Changes

In contrast to the men's side, England women's coach Stuart Barrow made three changes to his starting XIII for the match against Australia. Jenna Foubister starts at half-back in place of Georgia Roche, partnering Izzy Rowe. Molly Jones replaces Georgia Wilson in the centres, and Liv Wood starts at prop ahead of Mary Coleman.

Wales Team Updates

Meanwhile, Wales coach Thomas Brindle made several lineup changes ahead of their second World Cup match against Samoa on Friday. Amberley Ruck takes over from Ffion Lewis, Zoe Heeley moves from centre to the wing, Jade Mullen comes into the centres, and Sian Williams also earns a start.

Context

The Rugby League World Cup brings together top international teams to compete for the sport's global title, with group stage matches determining who advances to the knockout rounds. Margin of victory often plays a crucial role in tournament standings when teams finish with equal wins.