ENGLAND are hosting a wheelchair tri-series tomorrow (Sunday) bringing together many of their top stars plus new international hopefuls.
At the University of York’s Sports Centre, 24 players will be spread across three teams and try to impress head coach Tom Coyd.
It’s part of a new talent pathway launched this year with the aim of strengthening the World Cup holders.
Nine different clubs will be represented including first selections from fledgling outfits Batley Bulldogs and Castleford Tigers, in Thomas Oates and Luis Domingos respectively.
And there will also be a new name to the sport, Jack Neatis, who has previously played wheelchair basketball for Lancaster.
Those involved will look to secure a place in the England performance squad ahead of an Ashes series in Australia this autumn and a World Cup down under next year.
Three 40-minute matches will be held in York, starting at midday with entry free for spectators.
Tri-series team
Red Team: Martin Lane (Sheffield Eagles), Wayne Boardman (Halifax Panthers), Chris Haynes (Sheffield Eagles), Seb Bechara (Catalans Dragons), Tristan Norfolk (Hull FC), Nathaniel Wright (Halifax Panthers), Stephen Reilly (Sheffield Eagles), Josh Butler (Leeds Rhinos). Coach – Greg Brown (Sheffield Eagles). Assistant Coach – Tom Halliwell (Leeds Rhinos).
Green Team: Joe Wink-Simmonds (Sheffield Eagles), Joe Coyd (London Roosters), Mason Billington (London Roosters), Jason Owen (London Roosters), Josh Edwards (Hull FC), Luis Domingos (Castleford Tigers), Jack Brown (Halifax Panthers), Finlay O’Neill (Halifax Panthers). Coach – Mike Swainger (Hull FC). Assistant Coach – John McMullen (RFL).
Yellow Team: Thomas Oates (Batley Bulldogs), Ewan Clibbens (Leeds Rhinos), Lewis King (London Roosters), Jordan Holt (Halifax Panthers), Jack Neatis (Wigan Warriors), Rob Hawkins (Halifax Panthers), Nathan Collins (Leeds Rhinos), Nathan Holmes (Halifax Panthers). Coach – Ian Stapleton (Warrington Wolves). Assistant Coach – Michael Collins (Leeds Rhinos).