Rugby League's Ashes Series Returns After 21-Year Absence

Strategic Insights -

The highly anticipated return of the Rugby League Ashes series to the international calendar has been confirmed, with Australia set to host the series in 2025. This marks the first time the series has been played since 2003. The Kangaroos will then travel to the UK in 2028 for a highly anticipated series on English soil, which will be the first time the series has been played in the UK in 25 years.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Rugby League Ashes series will return to the international calendar in 2025, with Australia hosting the series.
  • The series was last played in 2003, with the third test of that series featuring a notable red card for Adrian Morley in the opening tackle.
  • The 1978 Ashes series was marked by a notable incident where George Nicholls was outstanding for Great Britain, beating the Roos at Odsal to send the series into a last match decider.
  • Stuart Wright scored both of Great Britain's tries in the 18-14 win over Australia in 1978.
  • The series has a long and storied history, with many notable matches and players contributing to its legacy.
  • The return of the series is set to be highly anticipated, with the 2028 series in the UK expected to draw large crowds and attention.
  • The series is a major event in the Rugby League calendar, bringing together top-class teams and players from around the world.
  • The Ashes series is a symbol of the long-standing rivalry between Australia and the UK, which dates back to the early days of the sport.

Statistics:

  • The Rugby League Ashes series will be played in 2025 and 2028.
  • The series was last played in 2003, and there has been a 21-year absence between series.
  • The 2028 Ashes series will be played in the UK for the first time in 25 years.
  • The series has a long history, with the first recorded match between Australia and Great Britain taking place in 1908.
  • The 1978 Ashes series featured a notable 18-14 win for Great Britain over Australia, with Stuart Wright scoring both of Great Britain's tries.

Sources:

  • [T]witter post by Mike Critchley (@mike_critchley) on September 12, 2024.