Wales announce 19-man squad to face England

Correspondent

Iestyn Harris has announced his 19-man squad to face England in the home nation’s opening Four Nations match.

Wales will have experienced skipper Lee Briers back after he missed the side’s 30-6 win over Ireland at the weekend. Briers will win his 21st Welsh cap since making his international debut in 1998.

Ian Watson is expected to extend his record number of caps to 29. Watson made his debut in 1995, but missed out on selection for the World Cup that same year.

Peter Lupton, Tyson Frizell and Matt Seamark are all expected to make their competitive debuts for the Welsh side, after making their full Welsh test debuts against Ireland at the weekend.

Wales coach Iestyn Harris said: “It was a very difficult decision to choose the 19-man squad as last week’s game against Ireland was a very good all-round team performance. It will be even more difficult to cut two more out of the squad for Saturday.

“We’re all looking forward to the game. To open our Four Nations campaign against England in front of a full-house is a very exciting prospect.”

Wales team to face England at Leigh Sports Village.

Lee BriersWarrington Wolves
Neil Budworth – MacKay Cutters
Ross DivortyFeatherstone Rovers
Gil Dudson – Crusaders 
Ben Flower – Crusaders
Tyson FrizellCronulla Sharks
Aled JamesSouth Wales Scorpions 
Jordan James – Crusaders 
Danny Jones – Halifax
Craig Kopzcak – Bradford Bulls
Elliot Kear – Crusaders
Peter Lupton – Crusaders
Christiaan RoetsSouth Wales Scorpions
Matt Seamark – Wynnum Manly Seagulls
Ian WatsonSwinton Lions
Ian Webster – Central Comets
Lloyd White Crusaders
Rhys Williams Warrington Wolves