Joe Burgess is set to make his long-awaited return to international rugby as he has been named in the 19-man England squad for the final Ashes Test against Australia. The 31-year-old Hull KR winger, who last appeared for England in 2015 during the series against New Zealand, will take to the field at AMT Headingley in Leeds on Saturday, marking his first international match in ten years.
Burgess has enjoyed a standout 2025 season, playing a crucial role in Hull KR’s treble-winning campaign. England Head Coach Shaun Wane applauded Burgess’s resurgence, stating, “It’s a credit to him, he has a new lease of life at Hull KR. I am so happy to be able to give him a start. That means something to me.”
Reflecting on his return to the England squad, Burgess expressed both excitement and surprise, noting, “This has been the best year of my life, my first time winning Challenge Cup and Super League. Then being recalled back to England squad, it is an unbelievable year I still have not fully processed.” The seasoned winger emphasized his belief that it isn’t too late to contribute at the international level, stating, “Yeah, if I knuckled down – I did it once, could do it again.”
The England team is facing challenges in the series, as they have lost the first two matches. Dom Young will be absent due to a broken foot, adding pressure on the squad to perform.
On the Australian side, there are minimal changes anticipated. Captain Isaah Yeo is set to return after missing the second Test due to a failed head injury assessment. Consequently, Australia’s roster will revert to the lineup chosen for the first Test at Wembley, with Yeo positioned at loose forward, while Patrick Carrigan moves back to the front row and Lindsay Collins shifts to the bench.
As the two sides prepare for this crucial match, both teams look to bounce back and deliver a memorable performance. Excitement surrounds Burgess’s return, and fans are eager to see how he meshes with the current England squad as they seek to turn the tide in the Ashes series against a formidable Australian side.
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