It’s easy in hindsight, but many pundits and supporters felt beforehand England had selected the wrong squad, preferring known quantities to players in form - and that proved to be the case. The hosts managed only two tries in three Tests, losing by an aggregate score of 70-18 and few, if any, of coach Shaun Wane’s squad will feel they gave the best account of themselves. Here’s how the YEP rated the England players’ performance over the full series.
1. England Ashes player ratings
Here's how the England players rated. Photo: Olly Hassell/SWpix.com
2. John Bateman(one appearance)
Did an okay job at Wembley, but missed the next two matches after rolling an ankle 5 Photo: Richard Blaxall/SWpix.com
3. AJ Brimson (two appearances)
Was steady, if not spectacular, on debut in the second Test at Everton, but lasted only 10 minutes the following week before suffering a shoulder injury 5 Photo: Olly Hassell/SWpix.com
4. Joe Burgess (one appearance)
Came in at Headingley for his first Test cap in 10 years and found it tough going, with errors and penalties conceded 4 Photo: Olly Hassell/SWpix.com
5. Daryl Clark (one appearance)
Scored England’s only try at Wembley, out of acting-half from close-range; was steady but nothing more and didn’t play again 5 Photo: Ed Sykes/SWpix.com
6. Herbie Farnworth (three appearances)
Not exactly outstanding, but certainly one of England’s best throughout the three games, when his top-level NRL experience showed 7 Photo: Olly Hassell/SWpix.com