England captain George Williams insists his squad is ready to thrive under the underdog label as they prepare for a challenging Rugby League World Cup opener against Tonga in Perth this Saturday. Despite a history of intense rivalries, including a dramatic 2017 World Cup semi-final victory and a clean sweep in a home Test series three years ago, Williams acknowledges the strength of the opposition.
The England side has been bolstered by a blend of youth and experience, though they enter the tournament following a late adjustment to their starting line-up. Luke Thompson has been called up to replace Morgan Knowles, while the team continues to manage the absence of Morgan Smithies, who withdrew due to injury.
Conditions at HBF Park are expected to be a significant factor, with humidity forecasted to exceed 60%. Williams emphasized that playing in such an environment is vastly different from the cooler, late-year climate often experienced in England, noting that the difficult conditions will provide a stern test against an evolving Tongan squad filled with NRL-level talent. And with humidity expected to be above 60% inside HBF Park, Williams expects the toughest of starts against a Tonga side who have evolved since 2023 and are packed with NRL talent. With the heat and different conditions, i think it’s always different over here as well.
Reflecting on the team’s preparation, the 31-year-old captain stated that Tonga is a stacked team that has been highly competitive for years. He added that the squad appreciates the underdog status and is determined to bring their best game to the pitch against a world-class opponent. We’ll be underdogs but we’ll quite like that kind of brush on our head and we’ll bring our game tomorrow night against a great team. It helps when you drag them to Leeds and it’s minus two or whatever it normally is in November.
Addressing the emotional toll of past tournament failures, such as the heartbreaking golden-point loss to Samoa in the 2022 semi-finals and the narrow 6-0 defeat to Australia in the 2017 final, Williams remains focused. He also noted that leading the side during the 3-0 Ashes series loss in 2025 provided valuable, albeit difficult, experience. Australia, Papua New Guinea, New Zealand.
Williams dismissed concerns that these previous results would hinder the current group coached by Brian McDermott. He suggested that acknowledging past disappointments provides necessary drive and motivation for the players.
The team environment is currently defined by a diverse mix of backgrounds and ages. According to the captain, the combination of younger prospects, heritage players, and veteran leaders is crucial for maintaining focus as they aim to get the job done in the opening round.
Coverage of the match will be available via live commentary on Radio 5 Live, Radio 5 Sports Extra, Sounds platform, and the official Sport website and app, covering both the men’s and selected women’s fixtures.
