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Talking Rugby League: How should England line up to beat Tonga?

MY colleague Garry Schofield made a good point about the World Cup in his column last week, pointing out that with only ten teams playing…

Published: Monday, 12 October 2026 at 11:00 AM
Talking Rugby League: How should England line up to beat Tonga?
Key Things to Know
  • Martyn Sadler proposes his preferred England matchday lineup to face Tonga in their World Cup opener.
  • Sadler selects Jack Welsby, George Williams, and Herbie Farnworth in his suggested starting thirteen.
  • Sadler argues England benefits from playing in Perth rather than Tongan fan hubs like Sydney or Auckland.
The Story in 60 Seconds

Martyn Sadler outlines his proposed starting lineup and matchday squad for England's upcoming World Cup opener against Tonga in Perth. Sadler believes England can challenge a formidable Tongan side with an NRL-heavy roster, suggesting a starting thirteen that includes Jack Welsby, George Williams, and Herbie Farnworth.

Sadler notes that playing in Western Australia may neutralize Tonga's typical crowd advantage seen in Sydney or Auckland. He argues that England's selected side possesses sufficient attacking creativity to counter key Tongan threats such as halfback Isaiya Katoa.

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