Rugby League Today: England’s message to Australia, Wane on ‘irrelevant’ Clarke & McShane’s challenge

Drew Darbyshire

A wrap up of the latest news in rugby league.

What’s on site

England coach Shaun Wane has appointed Andy Last and Paul Wellens as his assistants.

We’ve selected a Dream XIII based on players who have never won a NRL Grand Final. It’s a very good team as well.

St Helens fan Bobby Lee is our latest guest on My Set of Six. He talks Jamie Lyon, War of the Roses and Saints’ 75-0 win over Wigan.

Warrington forward Joe Philbin says he is willing to play multiple games a week to keep the game going.

The French Rugby League Federation have confirmed they will scrap the 2019-20 season, with no club being awarded the title. Staying on France, Harrison Hansen has signed a new deal with Toulouse.

What’s in the papers

England coach Shaun Wane would play on Christmas Day to save planned Ashes series, reports the Mirror.

Shaun Wane dismisses criticism from ‘irrelevant’ Phil Clarke, reports Wigan Today.

England coach throws down challenge to Castleford hooker Paul McShane, reports The Yorkshire Post.

My favourite game: Warrington v Wigan, New Year’s Day 1988, reports The Guardian.

England boss Shaun Wane tells Aussies, ‘We’ll play you there at Christmas!’, reports The Sun.

What’s on social

Check these out…

Fair point.

This is a great idea from the NRL!

What’s on TV/Radio

Former Super League and NRL forward Keith Mason is this week’s guest on The Last Tackle. He talks about his switch to the NRL at 20 as well as his new rugby comic – Rugby Blood.

Super League’s Out Of Your League podcast is back, featuring Jon Wilkin and Mark Flanagan.

Sky Sports’ Golden Point podcast is available to download now.

Podcast: The Final Hooter #4 – featuring rugby league royalty Ellery Hanley.

The latest Forty20 LIVE podcast is out now.

The latest 5 Live Rugby League Podcast is out now, hosted by Dave Woods.

Birthdays

France and Scotland international Kane Bentley turns 33 today.

Also celebrating; Fiji international Isaac Lumelume (22), ex-Leigh player Jason Duffy (33) and former Gateshead and Oldham utility Jamie Russo (39).

Trivia

Jim Sullivan holds the record for most goals kicked in a rugby league match, having kicked 22 for Wigan against Flimby & Fothergill in the Challenge Cup in 1925.

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