LONDON: Brothers Sam, George and Tom Burgess were all included in England’s 24-man World Cup squad announced yesterday.
But there was no place for all four Burgess brothers, with former Leeds prop Luke missing out on selection by England coach Steve McNamara.
In August, all four brothers played in the same South Sydney Rabbitohs side that took part in an Australian National Rugby League match, a feat last accomplished 103 years ago in the competition, as Wests Tigers were beaten 32-18.
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.
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 later this month.
“After three years of excellent preparation and the success of the England elite training programme during that period, we are ready for the Rugby League World Cup 2013,” McNamara said yesterday. England’s World Cup 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) REUTERS
