Latest news with #ABKBeerAshesSeries
Daily Mirror
5 days ago
- Sport
- Daily Mirror
Adam Hills backs Aussie stars to be fired up for Ashes clash and aims subtle England dig
England's last win against the Kangaroos came 30 years ago while their most recent Ashes series win was 25 years before that in 1970 as Great Britain Comedian Adam Hills expects Australia to be 'absolutely fired up' to protect their dominant record over England as the two sides meet in this Autumn's ABK Beer Ashes Series. England's last win against the Kangaroos came 30 years ago while their most recent Ashes series win was 25 years before that in 1970 as Great Britain. The three-Test contest will see England face Australia on home soil for the first time since the 2017 Rugby League World Cup Final and will also be the first Ashes Series since 2003, when the Kangaroos last toured the UK under the Great Britain banner. And despite the long gap between instalments of the iconic series, Hills explained the hunger from the Australian players and public for more victories over England has not waned during that time. 'There's such a pride in Australia, especially for rugby league, but in any sport when it comes to beating England,' the 55-year-old Sydney native said. 'When you play England, you want to walk away with a whitewash, you want them to not score, you want it to be a cricket Ashes series where, like Glenn McGrath would say, you win 5-0. 'And I know the Australians will be coming here absolutely fired up to make sure they win. 'But their attitude won't just be to win the series, or just to win every match, it'll be to absolutely destroy England in all three games and to try and make sure they don't score a point.' Hills, who hosts The Last Leg, was a member of the Australian side at the inaugural Physical Disability Rugby League World Cup in 2022 and hopes, through his role as RFL president, to try a promote disability rugby league as much as he can. 'Regardless of the sport, there has to be an England v Australia Ashes,' he continued. 'I've played disability rugby league and, since becoming president and even before then, I'm doing what I can to make sure there's disability rugby league at the next World Cup. 'We did it once and it can't be a one off. And I also think there should be a disability rugby league Ashes too. 'I really want that to be a thing.' Hills was speaking during a launch event in London to mark 100 days to go until the 2025 Ashes Series begins. The series kicks off at Wembley Stadium on Saturday 25th October, before heading to Liverpool a week later on Saturday 1st November where a sold-out Bramley-Moore Dock will take centre stage. Beginning in Clapham - home of one of London's largest populations of expat Aussies - and finishing at the iconic Wembley Stadium, the tour saw the Ashes Trophy travel through the capital's streets aboard a classic London bus, giving fans and passers-by a glimpse of the 97-year-old trophy as it approached the Wembley arch. Leeds Rhinos' Headingley Stadium is the venue for the third and final Test on Saturday 8th November which is also a sellout. Over 60,000 tickets were sold on the first day of the priority sales window, which was a record-breaking figure for any Rugby League series launch. Hills predicted a close series and expressed his desire for a winner-takes-all decider come the third Test. 'It's going to finish 2-1 to someone,' he said. 'Rugby League will be the winner, and I think that final game at Headingley will be unbelievable. 'As an Australian, where do you not want to be playing? 'I'm absolutely pumped for that match.' Marking the milestone with a '100 days to go' London Trophy Tour were Rugby League legend Martin Offiah MBE , current England captain George Williams , star player Jack Welsby , and Aussie comedian and Rugby Football League President, Adam Hills MBE .
North Wales Chronicle
5 days ago
- Sport
- North Wales Chronicle
Rugby league: Offiah backs Nsemba to be next superstar
The 20-year-old was selected in Shaun Wane's preparation squad for the ABK Beer Ashes Series against Australia, which begins in October, having made his England debut last November against Samoa. The second row's incredible rise came during Wigan Warriors' historic 2024 campaign in which they won the Betfred Super League Grand Final, League Leaders' Shield, Challenge Cup and the World Club Challenge. Nsemba, who can also play prop, was recognised for his stellar contributions last term by winning the Super League Young Player of the Year award. He was also named in the Super League Dream Team and given a new six-year contract by Wigan. 🤩 Just 100 days to go! 👀 We're getting even closer to the opening test of the @ABKBeer Rugby League Ashes at @WembleyStadium... 🏴 Get your tickets and support #EnglandRL now: Former England and Great Britain international Offiah, who spent three trophy-laden years with Wigan between 1992 and 1995, is backing two-time Super League winner Nsemba to become a 'household name'. 'My expectations are high for Junior,' he said. 'He burst onto the scene during Wigan's perfect season. 'He played in big games, and he's been part of a side that's beaten Australian teams such as Penrith in the World Club Challenge. 'He knows what to expect. There is going to be a lot of expectation on Junior and his brand is rising. 'For me, he's the next big superstar of the English game. 'He is a Wigan player and that comes with a lot of pressure as well, because people are looking at him and saying he's the next Ellery Hanley. 'He's the next guy who, if England win this Ashes series, could go onto become a household name.' Beginning in Clapham - home of one of London's largest populations of expat Aussies - and finishing at the iconic Wembley Stadium, the tour saw the Ashes Trophy travel through the capital's streets aboard a classic London bus, giving fans and passers-by a glimpse of the 97-year-old trophy as it approached the Wembley arch. Nsemba made his domestic debut in 2022 aged 18 and has produced another string of dynamic and eye-catching performances during the 2025 season, scoring six tries in 18 appearances, as Wigan sit second in the table. Offiah knows all about the pressures the come with rising to the top of the sport but is steadfast in his belief Nsemba can handle what is thrown at him. 'When you push people into that position, it's tough because it comes with a certain level of expectation,' he continued. 'The Aussies are going to be aware of him; he's going to be a targeted man. 'Can he rise to that challenge? Can he be that guy? He can, and I believe Junior's got everything to handle it.' Offiah was speaking during a launch event in London to mark 100 days to go until the 2025 Ashes Series begins. The three-Test contest will see England face Australia on home soil for the first time since the 2017 Rugby League World Cup Final, and will also be the first Ashes Series since 2003, when the Kangaroos last toured the UK under the Great Britain banner. The series kicks off at Wembley Stadium on Saturday 25th October, before heading to Liverpool a week later on Saturday 1st November where a sold-out Bramley-Moore Dock will take centre stage. Leeds Rhinos' Headingley Stadium is the venue for the third and final Test, also a sellout, on Saturday 8th November. Over 60,000 tickets were sold on the first day of the priority sales window, which was a record-breaking figure for any Rugby League series launch. 'I'm so happy to see the Ashes Series return to the Rugby League calendar after such a long time,' Offiah added. 'There is a rich history between these two great teams, and the upcoming Test Matches give this generation of athletes a chance to write their own chapter in the story of this famous rivalry.' Marking the milestone with a '100 days to go' London Trophy Tour were Rugby League legend Martin Offiah MBE, current England captain George Williams, star player Jack Welsby, and Aussie comedian and Rugby Football League President, Adam Hills MBE.
Glasgow Times
5 days ago
- Sport
- Glasgow Times
Rugby league: Offiah backs Nsemba to be next superstar
The 20-year-old was selected in Shaun Wane's preparation squad for the ABK Beer Ashes Series against Australia, which begins in October, having made his England debut last November against Samoa. The second row's incredible rise came during Wigan Warriors' historic 2024 campaign in which they won the Betfred Super League Grand Final, League Leaders' Shield, Challenge Cup and the World Club Challenge. Nsemba, who can also play prop, was recognised for his stellar contributions last term by winning the Super League Young Player of the Year award. He was also named in the Super League Dream Team and given a new six-year contract by Wigan. 🤩 Just 100 days to go! 👀 We're getting even closer to the opening test of the @ABKBeer Rugby League Ashes at @WembleyStadium... 🏴 Get your tickets and support #EnglandRL now: — England Rugby League (@England_RL) July 17, 2025 Former England and Great Britain international Offiah, who spent three trophy-laden years with Wigan between 1992 and 1995, is backing two-time Super League winner Nsemba to become a 'household name'. 'My expectations are high for Junior,' he said. 'He burst onto the scene during Wigan's perfect season. 'He played in big games, and he's been part of a side that's beaten Australian teams such as Penrith in the World Club Challenge. 'He knows what to expect. There is going to be a lot of expectation on Junior and his brand is rising. 'For me, he's the next big superstar of the English game. 'He is a Wigan player and that comes with a lot of pressure as well, because people are looking at him and saying he's the next Ellery Hanley. 'He's the next guy who, if England win this Ashes series, could go onto become a household name.' Beginning in Clapham - home of one of London's largest populations of expat Aussies - and finishing at the iconic Wembley Stadium, the tour saw the Ashes Trophy travel through the capital's streets aboard a classic London bus, giving fans and passers-by a glimpse of the 97-year-old trophy as it approached the Wembley arch. Nsemba made his domestic debut in 2022 aged 18 and has produced another string of dynamic and eye-catching performances during the 2025 season, scoring six tries in 18 appearances, as Wigan sit second in the table. Offiah knows all about the pressures the come with rising to the top of the sport but is steadfast in his belief Nsemba can handle what is thrown at him. 'When you push people into that position, it's tough because it comes with a certain level of expectation,' he continued. 'The Aussies are going to be aware of him; he's going to be a targeted man. 'Can he rise to that challenge? Can he be that guy? He can, and I believe Junior's got everything to handle it.' Offiah was speaking during a launch event in London to mark 100 days to go until the 2025 Ashes Series begins. The three-Test contest will see England face Australia on home soil for the first time since the 2017 Rugby League World Cup Final, and will also be the first Ashes Series since 2003, when the Kangaroos last toured the UK under the Great Britain banner. The series kicks off at Wembley Stadium on Saturday 25th October, before heading to Liverpool a week later on Saturday 1st November where a sold-out Bramley-Moore Dock will take centre stage. Leeds Rhinos' Headingley Stadium is the venue for the third and final Test, also a sellout, on Saturday 8th November. Over 60,000 tickets were sold on the first day of the priority sales window, which was a record-breaking figure for any Rugby League series launch. 'I'm so happy to see the Ashes Series return to the Rugby League calendar after such a long time,' Offiah added. 'There is a rich history between these two great teams, and the upcoming Test Matches give this generation of athletes a chance to write their own chapter in the story of this famous rivalry.' Marking the milestone with a '100 days to go' London Trophy Tour were Rugby League legend Martin Offiah MBE, current England captain George Williams, star player Jack Welsby, and Aussie comedian and Rugby Football League President, Adam Hills MBE.
South Wales Argus
5 days ago
- Sport
- South Wales Argus
'Sky is the limit' for Robertson, says England's Williams
The 19-year-old was one of six uncapped players named in Shaun Wane's preparation squad for the highly anticipated ABK Beer Ashes Series against Australia, which begins in October. The versatile youngster, who can operate at fullback, centre, or half-back, is currently enjoying an impressive Betfred Super League campaign with Saints, having scored eight tries in 13 appearances so far this term. Those exploits in red and white have seen Robertson, who made his debut for the club in 2024, rewarded with a first national team call-up and two-time Super League winner Williams thinks it will be the first of many. ⌛️ The countdown is on! 👀 Just 100 days until we welcome @Kangaroos to @WembleyStadium... Join us 👉 — England Rugby League (@England_RL) July 17, 2025 'I think Harry Robertson is one [who could play for England for the next 10 years],' he said. 'I watch him and think he's really talented. The sky really is the limit for him. 'He's just one of them that you watch and you think, 'that kid has got it'. Hopefully, he goes onto big things and if he gets selected, I'll put my arm around him. 'But the good thing about England is, I might have the title as captain, but we've got so many leaders. 'There are multiple club captains within the squad, so we all lean on each other when needs be and get around the young ones.' Beginning in Clapham - home of one of London's largest populations of expat Aussies - and finishing at the iconic Wembley Stadium, the tour saw the Ashes Trophy travel through the capital's streets aboard a classic London bus, giving fans and passers-by a glimpse of the 97-year-old trophy as it approached the Wembley arch. Robertson's teammate George Delaney, Leeds Rhinos pair James McDonnell and Morgan Gannon, Hull KR's James Batchelor and Owen Trout of Leigh Leopards complete the uncapped dozen Wane has called into his Ashes plans. And while Williams, who has played 18 times for his country, understands it can be daunting for younger players coming into their first England squad, the 30-year-old has backed Robertson and co to make the most of the experience. 'I would just say enjoy it and be yourself,' he continued. 'Do what you've done to get yourself into this environment, don't go into your shell. 'I think that's probably what most lads do naturally, they feel a little bit of imposter syndrome. 'Take Harry, he's 19 years old. He's coming into meetings and being asked to speak to people he's watched for 10 years on the telly so I can imagine that can be a bit awkward. 'So, I'd say to the likes of him, get in amongst it, learn as much as you can and the main thing is to enjoy it. 'Playing for England doesn't come around often so when it does, you've got to enjoy it.' Williams was speaking during a launch event in London to mark 100 days to go until the 2025 Ashes Series begins. The three-Test contest will see England face Australia on home soil for the first time since the 2017 Rugby League World Cup Final and will also be the first Ashes Series since 2003, when the Kangaroos last toured the UK under the Great Britain banner. The series kicks off at Wembley Stadium on Saturday 25th October, before heading to Liverpool a week later on Saturday 1st November where a sold-out Bramley-Moore Dock will take centre stage. Leeds Rhinos' Headingley Stadium is the venue for the third and final Test, also a sellout, on Saturday 8th November. Over 60,000 tickets were sold on the first day of the priority sales window, which was a record-breaking figure for any Rugby League series launch. 'We'll be out to right some wrongs, and we've got a great opportunity in our own country at some great grounds to try and turn them over,' Williams said. 'And it all starts at Wembley, so it's really exciting.' Marking the milestone with a '100 days to go' London Trophy Tour were Rugby League legend Martin Offiah MBE, current England captain George Williams, star player Jack Welsby, and Aussie comedian and Rugby Football League President, Adam Hills MBE.
Leader Live
5 days ago
- Sport
- Leader Live
'Sky is the limit' for Robertson, says England's Williams
The 19-year-old was one of six uncapped players named in Shaun Wane's preparation squad for the highly anticipated ABK Beer Ashes Series against Australia, which begins in October. The versatile youngster, who can operate at fullback, centre, or half-back, is currently enjoying an impressive Betfred Super League campaign with Saints, having scored eight tries in 13 appearances so far this term. Those exploits in red and white have seen Robertson, who made his debut for the club in 2024, rewarded with a first national team call-up and two-time Super League winner Williams thinks it will be the first of many. ⌛️ The countdown is on! 👀 Just 100 days until we welcome @Kangaroos to @WembleyStadium... Join us 👉 'I think Harry Robertson is one [who could play for England for the next 10 years],' he said. 'I watch him and think he's really talented. The sky really is the limit for him. 'He's just one of them that you watch and you think, 'that kid has got it'. Hopefully, he goes onto big things and if he gets selected, I'll put my arm around him. 'But the good thing about England is, I might have the title as captain, but we've got so many leaders. 'There are multiple club captains within the squad, so we all lean on each other when needs be and get around the young ones.' Beginning in Clapham - home of one of London's largest populations of expat Aussies - and finishing at the iconic Wembley Stadium, the tour saw the Ashes Trophy travel through the capital's streets aboard a classic London bus, giving fans and passers-by a glimpse of the 97-year-old trophy as it approached the Wembley arch. Robertson's teammate George Delaney, Leeds Rhinos pair James McDonnell and Morgan Gannon, Hull KR's James Batchelor and Owen Trout of Leigh Leopards complete the uncapped dozen Wane has called into his Ashes plans. And while Williams, who has played 18 times for his country, understands it can be daunting for younger players coming into their first England squad, the 30-year-old has backed Robertson and co to make the most of the experience. 'I would just say enjoy it and be yourself,' he continued. 'Do what you've done to get yourself into this environment, don't go into your shell. 'I think that's probably what most lads do naturally, they feel a little bit of imposter syndrome. 'Take Harry, he's 19 years old. He's coming into meetings and being asked to speak to people he's watched for 10 years on the telly so I can imagine that can be a bit awkward. 'So, I'd say to the likes of him, get in amongst it, learn as much as you can and the main thing is to enjoy it. 'Playing for England doesn't come around often so when it does, you've got to enjoy it.' Williams was speaking during a launch event in London to mark 100 days to go until the 2025 Ashes Series begins. The three-Test contest will see England face Australia on home soil for the first time since the 2017 Rugby League World Cup Final and will also be the first Ashes Series since 2003, when the Kangaroos last toured the UK under the Great Britain banner. The series kicks off at Wembley Stadium on Saturday 25th October, before heading to Liverpool a week later on Saturday 1st November where a sold-out Bramley-Moore Dock will take centre stage. Leeds Rhinos' Headingley Stadium is the venue for the third and final Test, also a sellout, on Saturday 8th November. Over 60,000 tickets were sold on the first day of the priority sales window, which was a record-breaking figure for any Rugby League series launch. 'We'll be out to right some wrongs, and we've got a great opportunity in our own country at some great grounds to try and turn them over,' Williams said. 'And it all starts at Wembley, so it's really exciting.' Marking the milestone with a '100 days to go' London Trophy Tour were Rugby League legend Martin Offiah MBE, current England captain George Williams, star player Jack Welsby, and Aussie comedian and Rugby Football League President, Adam Hills MBE.
