Wales Head Coach Tom Brindle Makes Two Changes for Rugby League World Cup Clash Against Australia

Wales head coach Tom Brindle has announced two personnel changes to his squad ahead of their upcoming 2026 Rugby League World Cup fixture against reigning champions Australia, scheduled for Sunday, 1 November, at 04:40 GMT.

Playing in their debut Rugby League World Cup, Wales are set to round out their pool stage campaign against the top-ranked tournament holders. Reports indicate that Wales have suffered two opening Pool A defeats, conceding 146 points across losses to England (70-6) and Samoa (76-0). Meanwhile, Australia enters the fixture aiming for a fourth consecutive World Cup title, having conceded zero points while scoring 118 across their opening matches.

Squad Adjustments and Line-Up Changes

• Ffion Lewis comes in to replace Amberley Ruck at stand-off.
• Carys Marsh shifts from the interchange bench into the starting hooker position.
• Lucia Davies is positioned to potentially make her tournament debut from the bench.
• Dani McGifford returns as the 18th player following an absence last week.
• Jasmine Gibbons has been ruled out after failing a late head injury assessment during the match against Samoa.

Confirmed Starting Line-Up and Reserves

• Starting XIII: Leanne Burnell, Zoe Heeley, Jade Mullen, Hannah Bluck, Siân Williams, Ffion Lewis, Tayla Preston, Agnes Wood, Carys Marsh, Emily Hughes, Georgia Cussons, Paige Travis, Bethan Dainton (captain).
• Interchange: Kathryn Salter, Erin Williams, Gracie Hobbs, Lucia Davies.
• Reserves: Amberley Ruck, Frances Layton, Hollie Brussels, Katie Carr.

Practical Implications and Verification

Fans and analysts following the tournament can verify the official line-ups, broadcast details, and match updates directly through the official BBC Sport website and app, or by tuning into scheduled audio coverage on platforms like BBC Radio 5 Live and BBC Sounds. Official tournament updates provide the most accurate verification for any late tactical alterations or broadcast schedules.