Mikey Lewis named among England reserves for Tonga World Cup opener

Mikey Lewis has been named among England’s reserves for their Rugby League World Cup opener against Tonga, with Harry Smith selected alongside captain George Williams in the halves.

Head coach Brian McDermott has picked AJ Brimson at full-back, while Jack Welsby is among six players listed on the interchange bench.

England begin their campaign at HBF Park in Perth on Saturday 17 October, with kick-off at 10.05am BST.

Mikey Lewis among England reserves

Hull KR half-back Lewis is listed alongside Ben Currie and Ben Talty outside the starting XIII and six interchange players in the RFL’s squad announcement.

The RFL says teams will name six interchange players throughout the tournament, but only four can enter the field.

Welsby is joined on the bench by Jez Litten, Luke Thompson, Ethan Havard, Sam Walters and Matty Ashton.

Zach Eckersley and Hugo Savala are named in the starting backline, while Max King starts at prop. Victor Radley is selected at loose forward.

When is England v Tonga on TV?

Premier Sports will show the match live in the UK.

England then face France in Perth on Saturday 24 October before travelling to Wollongong to play Papua New Guinea on Friday 30 October.

Our England World Cup fixtures and TV guide has the full schedule, UK kick-off times and an explanation of the tournament format.