Squad changes made for crucial World Cup matches

Jez Litten and Morgan Knowles enter England's starting line-up for their must-win Rugby League World Cup match against Papua New Guinea. Brad O'Neill drops out of the matchday squad completely for Friday's game in Wollongong.

Men's Team Changes

Head coach Brian McDermott brings in Hull KR's Litten at hooker for this final Group B-C fixture. Dolphins lock Knowles returns after recovering from a calf injury that kept him out of the first two matches. Victor Radley moves to the bench to make room. Meanwhile, Warrington player Matty Ashton keeps his spot on the wing, and Wigan's Zach Eckersley misses out again. England suffered a 30-12 loss to Tonga before bouncing back with an 82-0 win over France. To reach the semi-finals, England must beat Papua New Guinea and hope Tonga defeats Samoa in Sydney.

Women's Team Changes

For the England women's team, Georgia Roche replaces Jenna Foubister at half-back for their must-win group game against Samoa. Coach Stu Barrow brings in the experienced Roche after Foubister struggled against Australia's strong side last weekend. The team also suffers the loss of key player Eva Hunter to a leg injury. Hollie-Mae Dodd shifts from prop to the back row, allowing Mary Coleman to start at prop. Captain Jodie Cunningham overcomes an ear injury to take a spot on the bench, while Georgia Wilson replaces Molly Jones in the centres.

Context

Both the England men's and women's national rugby league teams face decisive group-stage fixtures to keep their tournament hopes alive. Knockout qualification depends heavily on winning their final matches and relying on favorable results from other group games. Injuries and tactical adjustments play a major role as coaches manage their squads through the demanding tournament schedule.