Gildart last represented England in 2018 under Wayne Bennett
Picture by Matthew Merrick/SWpix.com – 10/05/2026 – Rugby League – Betfred Challenge Cup Semi Final – Warrington Wolves v Hull KR – Eco-Power Stadium, Doncaster, England – Hull KR’s Oliver Gildart (c) celebrates his try against Warrington with Mikey Lewis (l).
Hull KR’s Oliver Gildart has set himself the target of being involved in this autumn’s England squad for the World Cup.
Gildart has been one of KR’s most consistent performers this season, touching down on six occasions and making up one half of one of the most potent outside back partnerships in Super League with Joe Burgess on his outside shoulder.
And, following on from last year’s injury hit campaign, it’s fair to say that the 29-year-old is getting back towards his very best form as a player.
The centre is likely to be in the England conversation come the end of the season then if he can carry that on, with Brian McDermott keeping a keen eye on Super League as he mulls over his squad for the World Cup.
Gildart, who hasn’t played for England since 2018, does have plenty of competition for a centre spot this autumn with Herbie Farnworth and Jake Wardle probably considered the leading candidates, while Harry Robertson and Harry Newman will also be considered.
But, the Rovers man will be doing all he can to book that spot on the plane down under
“I’d love to represent England again,” Gildart said. “It’s something that I wrote down for myself this year to try and be in contention but that’s just kind of a long-term goal.
“I think for me, just playing week in, week out, if I can get those consistent games, I feel like I’ll be there or there abouts at the end of the year.
“It’s a big goal of mine but I’m concentrating more on week to week with KR here.
“[McDermott] was at Leeds and we had some good battles back in the day.
“Hopefully I can keep playing well and maybe have a conversation with him this year and look to be in that World Cup squad come the end of the year.”
On his form in general so far, the centre added: “I’ve been happy with my performances this year, we’ve had a tough start to the year and some big games. I’m just grateful to be back playing consistently week in, week out.
“I’m enjoying playing here at the club, we have a great squad and we’re a pretty tight knit group and I’m enjoying my rugby. Hopefully that’s coming out in my performances.”