by England head coach Shaun Wane said it would be the “highlight” of his coaching career to face Australia in a home Ashes series scheduled for next year.
The Rugby Football League has confirmed that “initial discussions” have taken place with the Australian Rugby League Commission about a three-Test series in the UK – rugby league’s first Ashes in more than 20 years.
In 2023 it was announced that a new series would take place in Australia, but plans are now set to change, while a tour in 2020 ahead of the 2021 World Cup was canceled due to the coronavirus pandemic.
Wane, whose side face Samoa in the second game of their two-Test series at Headingley on Saturday, said: “I grew up watching Australia and New Zealand in the 1970s and 1980s and when it was canceled I was absolutely devastated.”
“It’s incredible that it’s starting again and they’re traveling here. I’m so excited. I can’t wait now.”
Asked about the significance of a first Ashes series since the Kangaroos’ 3-0 win over Great Britain in 2003, Wane said: “It’s so important.”
“I know New Zealand are a good team, they have beaten Australia in recent years, but the NRL and Australian rugby league are the pinnacle.”
“They have played the best rugby in the last few decades and for me as a coach that is what I want to compete with.”
“I’ve never done anything this big and that’s why I took this job. For me personally, getting the chance to train against them would be the highlight of my career.”
George Williams assisted two tries and scored one in England’s first Test win against Samoa on Sunday
Wane led England to a 3-0 series win over Tonga last year and his side beat Samoa 34-18 in their first game in Wigan on Sunday.
“We need to keep this momentum going with a really good calendar,” Wane said.
“I thought Sunday was fantastic, a good atmosphere and it’s only going to get better here.” [at Headingley] on Saturday.
“So if we can keep it up, we’ll get the Ashes next year and then the World Cup.” [in 2026]I think we are on the right track.
“Everyone recognizes that a really good, international stand-up calendar is great for our sport.”
Wane was critical of his side’s performance on Sunday, which he said “wouldn’t have worried Australia”, but believes both England and Samoa will improve.
“They’re going to be a lot better, so we have to be a lot smarter,” he said. “We have to be because Samoa have a smart coaching staff and they will see how they can put a little more pressure on us.”
Wane said Wigan pro Luke Thompson “will definitely play” on Sunday after missing the first Test due to suspension and that further changes were expected.
Wingers Dom Young and Matty Ashton are both being assessed after sustaining minor injuries on Sunday.
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