Shaun Wane names massive England bench for Rugby League World Cup opener against Samoa

England have named a big bench ahead of their World Cup opener with Samoa. Three props and St Helens loose forward Morgan Knowles make up the interchange as Shaun Wane looks to combat Samoa’s superior size.

There’s no place for Marc Sneyd, with the Salford halfback left out altogether. Kai Pearce-Paul, the Wigan youngster, is the other player in the 19-man squad to miss out. That means Jack Welsby partners George Williams in the halves and Mike McMeeken stars having been an injury doubt leading into the opener at St James’ Park.

Micky McIlorum is the only recognised hooker in the side, with Andy Ackers left out. The Catalans nine starts but it remains to be seen if he will play the full 80 minutes, something he rarely does for the Dragons. In the forwards, Tom Burgess starts alongside Huddersfield’s Chris Hill, who drew praise from Shaun Wane after the warm-up victory over Fiji.

Read more: England v Samoa Live: Rugby League World Cup build-up, team news from St James’ Park

Dom Young, as had already been confirmed, is given the nod on the wing after his try-scoring debut last week. Tommy Makinson also plays with Kallum Watkins and Herbie Farnworth the centres.

England side to face Samoa: Sam Tomkins, Tommy Makinson, Kallum Watkins, Herbie Farnworth, Dom Young, Jack Welsby, George Williams, Tom Burgess, Micky McIlorum, Chris Hill, Elliot Whitehead, Mike McMeeken, Victory Radley. Subs: Luke Thompson, Morgan Knowles, Matty Lees, Mike Cooper.

Read next

Sign up for our daily free Rugby League Live newsletter here

Tanni Grey-Thompson forced to withdraw from Rugby League World Cup plans after fall

Leaked photos from St James’ Park reveal spectacular insight into Rugby League World Cup atmosphere plans

Kevin Naiqama plots Australia’s Rugby League World Cup downfall as Fiji chase upset

Brian McDermott humbled by Fiji as he opens up on NRL move