England Wheelchair tour and Ashes series in Australia confirmed

England Wheelchair will return to Australia for the first time in six years in preparation to defend the World Cup Down Under in 2026.

Dates have been confirmed for a four-match tour which will include fixtures against New South Wales and Queensland before two internationals against the Wheelaroos at the Gold Coast Indoor Sport and Leisure Centre on October 30 and November 2.

England last toured Australia in 2019, winning 84-28 against the Wheelaroos in Sydney and 58-20 in Wollongong.

They then beat the Wheelaroos 38-8 at the Copper Box Arena in London in the opening game of their triumphant World Cup campaign in 2022.

But England are braced for a much sterner challenge following the increased focus on Wheelchair Rugby League in Australia in recent years.

Martin Coyd OBE, the General Manager of England Wheelchair Rugby League, said:

“We are excited to have confirmation of an Ashes Tour at the end of the year.

“It will be a significant event in its own right, as playing Australia on their own territory is always a major challenge, and one that our England players will relish.

“We are especially pleased to be touring the year ahead of our World Cup defence, as an Ashes series will raise the profile of Wheelchair Rugby League in Australia.

“The prospect of a trip to Australia will provide an extra edge and spice to the domestic 2025 season, as we’ve already seen in our Invitational Festival in Nottingham, and the England Tri-Series in York last weekend, with players looking to earn selection in the squad.

“It is clear that the pool of talent has grown and we have nine clubs represented by the 24 players who are currently on the National Talent Pathway, all striving for a seat on the aeroplane in October.”

England Wheelchair Ashes Tour 2026

Friday October 24 v New South Wales (Sydney)

Monday October 27 v Queensland (Sunshine Coast)

Thursday October 30 – First Test v Australia (Gold Coast)

Sunday November 2 – Second Test v Australia (Gold Coast)