Shaun Wane faces some major decisions ahead of this year’s Ashes series.
England head coach Shaun Wane has a major selection dilemma on his hands ahead of this autumn’s Ashes series, after Hull KR’s Jez Litten and Dean Hadley were named in the Super League Dream Team – a clear statement of their form and consistency in one of the league’s standout sides.
Their inclusion, along with team-mates Mikey Lewis and Peta Hiku, strengthens the case for Hull KR’s influence on the international stage, and puts pressure on Wane to rethink previous omissions as he prepares to name his squad to face Australia.
Hull KR lead the way in this year’s Dream Team with four representatives, with reigning Man of Steel Lewis just one of two players to have retained their spot from the 2024 Dream Team, alongside Wigan’s prolific try-scoring winger Liam Marshall.
Kiwi veteran Hiku earned a well-deserved debut, but it was particularly pleasing to see Litten and Hadley rewarded for their immense contributions this season.
The pair have been central to Hull KR’s success so far this year, having recently completed phase two as the club bid to secure a historic treble of trophies.
Under head coach Willie Peters, both Litten and Hadley have gone from strength to strength. Hadley is no longer the unsung hero – his tireless efforts across the middle of the field and his versatility have rightfully earned him time in the spotlight.
The 33-year-old was a surprise omission from Wane’s extended England squad earlier this year, but the forward has done more than enough to force his way into this year’s Dream Team. His form is making it increasingly difficult for Wane to ignore calls for his inclusion in the Ashes squad.
The England boss had previously expressed doubts about Hadley’s ability to compete against reigning world champions Australia, but the back-rower has proven himself at the highest level week in, week out for the Robins.
Likewise, momentum continues to build for Litten to be handed England’s number nine shirt. The 27-year-old has been one of Hull KR’s standout performers this season, winning the club’s prestigious Roger Millward Player of the Season award. He was also voted Members’ Player of the Season for his consistently outstanding displays.
St Helens and Great Britain legend Paul Sculthorpe is among those backing Litten to start for England, with games set to take place at Wembley, Everton’s Hill Dickinson Stadium, and Leeds’ Headingley Stadium this autumn.
The recent Dream Team honours for both Litten and Hadley have undoubtedly given Wane plenty to consider ahead of the Ashes showdown.