Why Mikey Lewis won’t play against Tonga as England boss explains Brimson over Welsby call ahead of Tonga tie

England head coach Brian McDermott has explained his squad selection decisions ahead of their Rugby League World Cup opener against Tonga on Saturday. Hull KR playmaker Mikey Lewis has been omitted from the 19-man playing squad, with George Williams and Harry Smith selected to start in the halves. McDermott also opted to start Gold Coast Titans back AJ Brimson at full-back instead of St Helens star Jack Welsby.

McDermott highlighted Smith's qualities as an on-the-ball controlling number seven alongside Williams as the main reason Lewis missed out. Despite missing the matchday squad, Lewis remains on the reserves list alongside Ben Currie and Ben Talty. McDermott stressed that the competition is long and Lewis will receive opportunities later in the tournament.