Three Burgess brothers picked for England

Three of the four Burgess brothers have made the England squad for the rugby league World Cup.

South Sydney's brothers Sam, George and Tom Burgess were all included in England's 24-man World Cup squad announced on Tuesday.

But there was no place for all four Burgess brothers, with Luke missing out on selection by England coach Steve McNamara.

Twins George and Tom, 21, were the only uncapped players named in a squad that will be captained by Leeds' Kevin Sinfield.

While both Sam and George were widely tipped to make it into the squad, the inclusion of Tom - who like his brothers made his name with English Super League side Bradford in their native Yorkshire - was a surprise.

Tom Burgess has effectively replaced Huddersfield prop Eorl Crabtree, the most notable omission in the squad.

Melbourne Storm's premiership winner Gareth Widdop is the other NRL player picked for England, after making a comeback from an horrific hip injury during the finals.

Brisbane centre Jack Reed is unavailable due to injury, while former Wests Tigers star Gareth Ellis has retired from international rugby league.

England, who will be looking to win their first World Cup since 1972 when they competed as Great Britain, are the main hosts of this year's tournament, which starts on October 26 when England plays Australia in Cardiff.

Squad

Carl Ablett (Leeds), Tom Briscoe (Hull), George Burgess, Sam Burgess, Tom Burgess (all South Sydney/AUS), Rob Burrow (Leeds), Josh Charnley (Wigan), Rangi Chase (Castleford), Leroy Cudjoe (Huddersfield), Liam Farrell (Wigan), James Graham (Canterbury Bulldogs/AUS), Ryan Hall (Leeds), Zak Hardaker (Leeds), Chris Hill (Warrington), Gareth Hock (Widnes), Michael McIlorum (Wigan), Lee Mossop (Wigan), Sean O'Loughlin (Wigan), James Roby (St Helens), Kevin Sinfield (Leeds, capt), Sam Tomkins (Wigan), Kallum Watkins (Leeds), Ben Westwood (Warrington), Gareth Widdop (Melbourne/AUS)


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Source: AAP


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