O’Loughlin captain as England pick three boys named Burgess
Sean O’Loughlin has been confirmed as England’s captain for the forthcoming Four Nations tournament, leading a squsd which includes three players named Burgess.
St Helens James Roby, Wigan’s Michael McIlorum and Warrington’s Ben Westwood have not been considered, as all three are due to have operations in the close season.
Brisbane Broncos Jack Reed and Parramatta Eels Lee Mossop are not available, as they are recovering from recent shoulder operations.
While Luke Burgess misses out, his brothers George and Tom are included, while their namesake at Wigan, Joe Burgess, also receives a call-up.
“We spent a long time selecting this squad and there were some close calls with a lot of competition for places,” said England coach Steve McNamara.
“But ultimately we chose the players who will give us the best chance of winning a major tournament in Australasia for the first time since 1990, when Great Britain defeated New Zealand.
“We have a tremendous challenge in front of us but I know the players have the desire, appetite and quality to do English Rugby League proud in this tournament.
“Sean O’Loughlin is a great leader and has been left a positive legacy from Kevin (Sinfield). He is excited and honoured to be captaining the national set-up and will impose his experience and qualities on the rest of the group.
“In particular, his attention detail and work ethic will inspire the players both on and off the field.”
O’Loughlin himself is looking forward to leading his troops into battle Down Under.
“I’m very excited by this new challenge, it is a huge honour to be appointed captain of the national team and I am very much looking forward to leading the side in Australia and New Zealand over the coming weeks,” said the Wigan star.
“We’ve got a number of leaders in the squad and I will work with them to ensure we are doing all we can to be successful on the international stage.
“It’s about going out there and leading from example. It’s an exciting time for England Rugby League.”
England squad:
George Burgess, South Sydney Rabbitohs, Dewsbury Moor
Joe Burgess, Wigan Warriors, Ince Rose Bridge
Tom Burgess, South Sydney Rabbitohs, Dewsbury Moor
Josh Charnley, Wigan Warriors, Wigan St Patricks
Daryl Clark, Castleford Tigers, Newsome Panthers
Mike Cooper, St George Illawarra Dragons, Latchford Albion
Liam Farrell, Wigan Warriors, Wigan St Patricks
Brett Ferres, Huddersfield Giants, Smawthorne Panthers
James Graham, Canterbury Bankstown Bulldogs, Blackbrook
Ryan Hall, Leeds Rhinos, Oulton Raiders
Zak Hardaker, Leeds Rhinos, Featherstone Lions
Chris Hill, Warrington Wolves, New Spring Lions
Josh Hodgson, Hull KR, East Hull
Sean O’Loughlin (captain), Wigan Warriors, Wigan St Patricks
Stefan Ratchford, Warrington Wolves, Wigan St Patricks
Dan Sarginson, Wigan Warriors, Hemel Stags
Michael Shenton, Castleford Tigers, Upton
Matty Smith, Wigan Warriors, Blackbrook
Joel Tomkins, Wigan Warriors, Wigan St Patricks
Sam Tomkins, New Zealand Warriors, Wigan St Patricks
Kallum Watkins, Leeds Rhinos, Latchford Albion
Joe Westerman, Hull FC, Featherstone Lions
Elliott Whitehead, Catalans Dragons, West Bowling
Gareth Widdop, St George Illawarra Dragons, King Cross