Rugby League Fans Face Disappointment as England’s Ashes Preparation Plans Scrapped
In a major setback for rugby league enthusiasts, Love Rugby League has learned that England’s preparations for the upcoming Ashes series will be significantly scaled back.
Traditionally, Shaun Wane’s side has used the mid-season window in June or July to take on opponents like the Combined Nations All Stars and France. However, after a lackluster trip to face France earlier this year, the annual mid-season test has been thrown into doubt.
Love Rugby League has now confirmed that England will not have a single game during the 2024 Super League season, and the chances of a training camp appear equally remote.
This decision seems to be the result of the ongoing “club versus country” battle, with Super League clubs prioritizing the packed domestic schedule over providing England with a dedicated window for Ashes preparation.
The news will come as a significant blow to Wane, who had hoped to have a variety of options to give England the best chance of success against the formidable Kangaroos. Even the prospect of a return of the War of the Roses fixture now appears bleak, as the congested domestic calendar takes precedence.
Wane had already expressed a desire for more time with his England squad, and now, his squad’s preparation time will be lighter than ever before a crucial Ashes series. The lack of a mid-season camp or match could severely hamper England’s chances of a strong performance against the world champions.
This development is sure to disappoint rugby league fans, who were hoping to see their national team in action during the 2024 season as they gear up for the Ashes challenge. With no games or training camps planned, England’s preparation time for the series will be more minimal than usual, leaving their chances of success in doubt.
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