In a much-anticipated announcement, the Australian Rugby League Commission has officially named a 24-man squad for the upcoming Ashes Test series against England. The tour, which revives one of the oldest rivalries in international rugby league, is set to begin on October 25 at Wembley Stadium in London, followed by Tests in Leeds and Liverpool.
The selection comes after months of speculation and a competitive NRL season that saw several rising stars put their hands up for national selection. Head coach Mal Meninga, who has remained tight-lipped in recent weeks, finally unveiled the squad today, stating that it balances experience with youthful talent and is geared toward reclaiming the Ashes on English soil.
Leading the Kangaroos will be veteran fullback and captain James Tedesco, who retains the armband despite growing calls for a generational change. Tedesco’s form in the back half of the NRL season has silenced critics and reaffirmed his place at the top level.
Joining him in the backline are the likes of Valentine Holmes, Josh Addo-Carr, and Latrell Mitchell, whose explosive return from injury makes him a key figure in the Kangaroos’ attacking arsenal. The halves combination is expected to feature Daly Cherry-Evans and Cameron Munster, bringing both experience and composure to the spine. Mam and Selwyn Cobbo have also
Australia’s forward pack looks formidable, with Payne Haas, Patrick Carrigan, and Tino Fa’asuamaleaui all named after dominant club campaigns. They will be backed by seasoned enforcers like Jake Trbojevic and Cameron Murray, ensuring Australia brings both physicality and work rate to the middle third.
Young bolters like Ezrabeen included, signaling Meninga’s intent to blend youth with experience as the team transitions toward the 2026 World Cup. Mam, in particular, has impressed with his game-breaking ability for the Broncos and could provide spark off the bench.
The Ashes series, last contested in 2003, is being played in England for the first time in over two decades, adding historical significance to the event. England, under head coach Shaun Wane, will be desperate to defend their home turf and build on recent strong international performances.
Wembley will host the opening clash on October 25, a fitting venue for what promises to be a fierce and emotional battle. The series will then move to Headingley Stadium in Leeds for the second Test, before concluding at Anfield in Liverpool—a stadium steeped in sporting history.
Coach Mal Meninga spoke about the team’s goals at the press conference:
“We’ve picked a squad that we believe can win the Ashes, but also one that sets us up for the future. There’s a mix of youth and experience, and we’re excited about what this group can achieve.”
The Australian team will travel to the UK in early October to begin preparations, including a warm-up match against a combined Super League XIII.
As the countdown to kickoff begins, fans on both sides of the globe are gearing up for what could be one of the most fiercely contested Ashes series in recent memory. With pride, legacy, and international bragging rights on the line, all eyes will be on Wembley come October 25.
