Leeds Rhinos trio included in England wheelchair squad: Hull FC man also called up
Three Leeds Rhinos players have been named in a 16-strong England Wheelchair performance squad.
The group will meet for the first time at the University of Nottingham this weekend to begin preparations for their autumn World Cup defence. Rhinos’ Nathan Collins, Josh Butler, and Tristan Norfolk are all included, along with the uncapped quartet of Sheffield Eagles’ Stephen Reilly and Joe Wink-Simmonds, Halifax’s Panthers’ Jordan Holt and Josh Edwards of Hull FC.
The squad also includes reigning IRL wheelchair Golden Boot winner Rob Hawkins, who made history last year by becoming the first wheelchair player to receive the award in consecutive seasons, along with Halifax teammates Jack Brown and Finlay O’Neill. Lewis King, who captained England to victory in last autumn’s Ashes tour to Australia, is joined by London Roosters team-mates Joe Coyd, Mason Billington and Jason Owen.
There is also a place for former Castleford Tigers star Luis Domingos, who moved to Sheffield in pre-season. Eagles’ Chris Haynes is another inclusion. Coach Tom Coyd said: “The competition for places in the national performances squad is as strong as it has ever been and that reflects the growth and quality we’re seeing across the domestic game.
“The depth of talent is a credit to our clubs and coaches up and down the country. We’ve got a healthy blend of experience from players who have been part of our recent success, alongside some exciting up-and-coming talent who have earned their opportunity through consistent performances at club level and in our development pathways. Roles within the team will be earned by being at your best every time you come into the England environment. “
He added: “Obviously, 2026 being a World Cup year, there is a clear focus on defending the title we worked so hard to win in 2022, but it’s also important we continue to strengthen the programme for the future. Bringing new players into the environment, challenging the established group and raising the level of competition across the squad is a big part of that.”
England Wheelchair national performance squad 2026: Jack Brown, Rob Hawkins, Jordan Holt, Finlay O’Neill (all Halifax Panthers), Mason Billington, Joe Coyd, Lewis King, Jason Owen (London Roosters), Luis Domingos, Chris Haynes, Stephen Reilly, Joe Wink-Simmonds (Sheffield Eagles), Nathan Collins, Josh Butler, Tristan Norfolk (Leeds Rhinos), Josh Edwards (Hull FC).