Discussions already underway for Ashes series from 2022 onwards

Discussions have already been opened on the potential for England hosting Australia in a three-match Ashes series from 2022 onwards.

The RFL and ARLC have confirmed the cancellation of the Ashes series that was scheduled to be held in England this autumn due to the complications surrounding global travel and the need to extend the domestic season in both hemispheres because of the disruption caused by the coronavirus pandemic.

But the RFL confirmed in their press release that “discussions have already been opened on the potential for the Kangaroos returning for a three-test Ashes series, from 2022 onwards” – with the Rugby League World Cup taking place next year in England.

RFL chief executive Ralph Rimmer said: “We remain committed to a worthwhile international calendar for our senior England teams (men, women and wheelchair) to build on the legacy that next year’s Rugby League World Cup will create and the rugby league Ashes would be a fantastic part of any meaningful international calendar in the future.

“We have already indicated to the ARLC that we would be keen to welcome them for a three-test series at any time in the future and will now work together to make this happen as soon as possible.”

NRL interim chief executive Andrew Abdo added: “It is disappointing that the historic Kangaroos tour to the UK can no longer take place in 2020.

“We look forward to the Rugby League World Cup in 2021 and hopefully a tour to the UK by the Kangaroos in a future season.”

Watch our Last Tackle podcast, featuring a guest, every week. SUBSCRIBE to Love Rugby League on YouTube.