Harry Smith has been selected alongside captain George Williams in England’s half-back roles for their opening match of the 2026 Rugby League World Cup against Tonga. Mikey Lewis has been left out of the team for the fixture.
Williams will lead England in the tournament opener, with Smith named in the other half-back position. The selection confirms the pairing that will take responsibility for England’s playmaking duties against Tonga.
Lewis is not included for the opening match. No reason for his omission is given in the supplied information.
England’s first World Cup fixture will be against Tonga, with the team now confirmed to include Smith and Williams in the half-back positions. Further selection details and developments will depend on the team’s progress through the tournament.