Leadership Transition in England Camp

Lewis King (London Roosters) steps into the captaincy void left by injured skipper Tom Halliwell, bringing World Cup-winning experience to England's wheelchair rugby league Ashes campaign. The 40-year-old Kent native, whose career began after a life-altering spinal injury in 2009, epitomizes the resilience of adaptive athletes.

Squad Dynamics

• Jack Brown (Halifax Panthers) appointed vice-captain
• Two uncapped players selected: Luis Domingos (Castleford Tigers) and Finlay O'Neill (Halifax Panthers)
• 10-player squad blends World Cup veterans (Seb Bechara, Nathan Collins) with new blood

The Road to Redemption

King's journey from:

• 2009 spinal clot diagnosis requiring 21-hour surgery
• 2016 debut with Dartford Argonauts
• 2022 World Cup heroics (5-try thriller vs France)

Coach Tom Coyd states: "Lewis embodies the spirit of wheelchair rugby - his leadership will forge new legends in Southern Hemisphere battles."

Tactical Innovations

• Non-disabled players policy: 2 of 5 on-court athletes permitted
• Brown's unique perspective from 4-year Australian coaching stint
• Dual warm-up matches vs NSW/Queensland state teams

Ashes Schedule

Beyond the Pitch

• Jack Brown's inspirational story: Playing alongside brother Harry (double amputee from meningitis)
• Equipment innovations: Custom rugby wheelchairs with reinforced bumpers
• Growing TV viewership: 58% increase since 2022 World Cup

"This isn't disability sport - this is elite rugby with wheels," King declared at squad announcement.