Australia and England/Great Britain have not played a Test since the 2017 World Cup Final in Brisbane which Australia won 6-0. That is nearly 5 years ago and to date there is no scheduled game in 2023. Alarmingly, the last Test series between them was 2003, almost two decades ago.  

This wasn't always the case.

The Ashes was a series of three Test Matches between the nations hosted in alternating fashion every two years or so. In later years this became more irregular and the UK hosted the last four Ashes series. The last Ashes that was hosted in Australia was 1992. 

The tradition of this series has always captured the imagination of fans and brought many new fans to our game. The 2021 World Cup proved that the English national team can draw interest and passion from across the U.K, beyond that of the Super League club game. The Kangaroos can do the same for Australia and the NRL. The Kangaroos are one of the game's most woefully neglected assets. We want to see them restored to a position of prestige.

The recent World Cup also proved that there is a widening gap between the northern hemisphere and the southern. It’s vital that the English team can compete against the Aussies regularly in meaningful and intense contests. In fact, Australia and England won't even face each other during the World Cup tournament.

The NRL is strong and growing, so it is also important that these fans have an entry point into supporting the game in England with Super League. Cooperation and collaboration between the two competitions should be maximised. 

So much needs to be done to improve International Rugby League. But the era of half measures, chopping and changing scheduling must end. Let’s return the Ashes to being a big part of our international program.  

It’s time for old memories to come alive and for new generations to fall in love with our game when the Kangaroos or England come to town or through the warm glow of television screens early in the morning. 

Bring back the Rugby League Ashes!

Wikipedia: More info on the Ashes

Recent article on the Ashes: Ashes to Ashes: Meninga eyes iconic series return for first time in 20 years

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