Jez Litten and Morgan Knowles have been selected for England’s starting line-up in a pivotal Rugby League World Cup match against Papua New Guinea on Friday.
Brad O’Neill has been dropped from the 19-player squad after his contribution in England’s 82-0 victory over France on Saturday.
Brian McDermott’s team must secure a decisive win in their final Group B and C encounter to stay in the race for the semi-finals. A potential slip against Tonga’s upcoming clash against Samoa could end England’s campaign early.
England faces a historic opportunity: a loss to Samoa would mark the first time the nation has been eliminated from the Rugby League World Cup. However, the side can still progress on points difference by defeating Papua New Guinea by a substantial margin, provided Tonga also secures a convincing victory against Samoa.
Litten will replace O’Neill at hooker for his first tournament appearance, while Knowles steps in as the loose forward after missing England’s opening two matches due to injury.
Victor Radley, who wore the No 13 jersey during his match against France, has been placed on the bench.
England starting line-up vs Papua New Guinea:
- AJ Brimson
- Dom Young
- Hugo Savala
- Herbie Farnworth
- Matty Ashton
- George Williams
- Harry Smith
- Max King
- Jez Litten
- Luke Thompson
- Junior Nsemba
- Kai Pearce-Paul
- Morgan Knowles
Interchange: 14. Mikey Lewis; 15. Sam Walters; 16. Ethan Havard; 17. Victor Radley; 18. Ben Currie; 19. Jack Welsby; 20. Brad O’Neill; 21. Zach Eckersley; 22. Kallum Watkins.