Australia World Cup winner Latrell Mitchell wants England next

Josh McAllister
Latrell Mitchell. PA Images.

Australia star Latrell Mitchell has sent out a message to England following their World Cup victory, calling for Shaun Wane’s side to travel Down Under for a test next year.

The Kangaroos claimed their 12th title on Saturday following a 30-10 victory over Samoa in the final at Old Trafford.

It cemented the side’s third straight World Cup, with South Sydney Rabbitohs full-back Mitchell insisting his side are number #1 in the world, responding to their current ranking of #4.  

Australia and England did not meet at the delayed 2021 campaign, having gone head-to-head for the trophy back in 2017.

They also opened the 2013 and 2000 tournaments, and featured in the same group in 2008. 

Latrell Mitchell wants England test

“England’s got to come to us now,” Mitchell said to the media after Saturday’s victory. 

“We’ll take them on in Australia. England need to come to Australia and we’ll play there. 

“We’re at number one, we should have been all along. We proved why and we’re going to keep proving it over the next couple of years. 

“Hopefully I get a few more games under my belt and keep wearing the jersey with pride and keep representing Australia, that’s what I’m here to do and the rest of the boys in there are celebrating. 

“We have a few young lads coming through as well, which only makes it more enjoyable to be able to see them achieve their dreams. That’s what I live for.”

Australia head coach Mal Meninga revealed that his side were due to tour in 2020, before the pandemic forced a cancellation.

England and the Kangaroos haven’t met for fives years.

“We had that all organised, but Covid interfered with all that,” Meninga said. “Without saying too much, it was all organised prior and we were coming over in 2020.

“But like I said, we need that window of opportunity. We need that schedule and something to work towards.”

The 62-year-old coach was also keen to return in the near-future to face England, who have a mid-season fixture against France next April.

More World Cup content

Australia’s Angus Crichton to challenge World Cup final ban

James Tedesco ranks World Cup win at top of career achievements

Comparing 2013 Rugby League World Cup attendances to 2021

FOLLOW: Keep up with all the latest on the Love Rugby League mobile app and podcast