England Retain the Ashes After Epic Battle with the Wheelaroos on the Gold Coast

England has retained the Wheelchair Rugby League Ashes after a thrilling 48–42 victory over Australia in Game 2 at the Gold Coast Sports and Leisure Centre — sealing the series 2–0 after Australia led for the majority of the game.

In hot and physical conditions, it was Australia who struck first. Diab Karim opened the scoring and Bayley McKenna converted for a 6–0 lead. England responded swiftly through Rob Hawkins and Finlay O’Neil, with Nathan Collins converting both to move ahead 12–6.

The Wheelaroos hit back with McKenna levelling the scores at 12-all, before both sides traded tries in a gripping, end-to-end first half. Adam Tannock’s opportunistic try and two late efforts — one from Dan Anstey and another spectacular finish from McKenna — saw Australia surge to a 30–18 halftime lead.

However, England showed their trademark resilience after the break. Led by captain Lewis King, playmaker Nathan Collins and double try-scorer Rob Hawkins, the visitors clawed their way back with precision attack and relentless defence. At 42-all with just under 3 minutes to play it was anyone’s game. England’s second-half dominance saw them overturn the deficit to claim a hard-fought 48–42 win — and with it, the Ashes trophy.

England Win the Ashes

Despite the defeat, Australia’s performance showcased their growth and potential ahead of next year’s Wheelchair Rugby League World Cup. Bayley McKenna was named Player of the Match after a standout display featuring two tries, seven goals, and several game-changing moments. After missing the first Test with injury, he was touch and go with his recovery for be ready for the second Test.

“Even an hour before kickoff, it was iffy, if I was going to play, “said McKenna. “But the boys know I’m going to do anything for them on or off the court. It’s the Australian spirit.”

Bayley McKenna – Player of the Match presented by Tony Grant, Chairman of International Rugby League

Australian Wheelaroos Head Coach Brett Clark reflected on the performance, saying:

“We were right on tonight. Our maturity really showed — we’re a much stronger side than we were at the 2022 World Cup. This group has developed the skillset to truly match it with the best in the world.”

🇬🇧 Final Score: England 48 – Australia 42
🏆 Series Result: England win 2–0 and retain the Ashes
⭐ Player of the Match: Bayley McKenna (AUS)

England will return home victorious, while Australia take heart from a brave performance that signals a bright future for the Wheelaroos on the world stage.

The result wraps up an unforgettable series and sets the stage for an exciting future — with Australia set to host the 2026 Rugby League World Cup, featuring the Men’s, Women’s, and Wheelchair tournaments all on home soil.

You can watch the match highlights here.