Joe Burgess is set to make his highly anticipated return to international rugby after a decade, having been named in the 19-man England squad for the final Ashes Test against Australia. The 31-year-old Hull KR winger, who last played for England in the 2015 series against New Zealand, is eager to make an impact.
Head coach Shaun Wane has confirmed that Burgess will take to the field at AMT Headingley in Leeds this Saturday, marking a remarkable comeback for the player, especially following Hull KR’s treble-winning season in 2025. “It’s a credit to him, he has a new lease of life at Hull KR,” Wane expressed, reflecting on Burgess’ contributions over the past year. He added, “I am so happy to be able to give him a start. That means something to me.”
Burgess has shared his excitement regarding the opportunity to return to the international arena. He mentioned, “Yeah, if I knuckled down – I did it once, could do it again. Once you get to 31, you wonder if it is too late. But I knew I had potential to play again. That has always been the end goal.” This year has been particularly special for Burgess, who celebrated his first Challenge Cup and Super League victories alongside his recall to the England squad, which he described as “unbelievable.”
The match comes as England looks to bounce back, having lost the first two games in the three-match series. They will be without wing Dom Young, who suffered a broken foot ahead of the match. On the Australian side, captain Isaah Yeo is making his return after missing the second Test due to a failed head injury assessment. This change means Australia will revert to their starting lineup from the first Test, with Yeo positioned at loose forward and Patrick Carrigan moving back to the front row.
As both teams gear up for this thrilling conclusion to the Ashes series, fans can expect an electrifying showdown, highlighting the resurgence of rugby talents like Burgess and the competitive spirit of both nations in this intense rivalry.