Jake Connor is shock omission from England squad for Rugby League World Cup

England head coach Brian McDermott has omitted Leeds Rhinos half-back Jake Connor from the England squad for the 2026 Rugby League World Cup. McDermott justified the decision by stating that Connor was edged out by a narrow margin and that Hull KR's Mikey Lewis better fits his attacking game plan against elite nations like Australia and New Zealand.

McDermott's squad features no players from Super League champions Wakefield due to post-season surgeries, while Ash Handley and Jake Wardle also miss out. Consequently, England's selection includes 10 NRL-based players, featuring call-ups for Australian-born Ben Talty and Hugo Savala, alongside debutant Max King and centre Herbie Farnworth.