Rob Hawkins joins England’s wheelchair rugby squad alongside four World Cup winners from 2022. The team will look to defend the title in Australia this autumn.
England's head coach has named his squad for the 2026 Wheelchair Rugby World Cup in Australia, adding veteran Rob Hawkins to a group that includes four players who lifted the trophy in 2022. The aim is to retain the title won for the first time in the nation's history.
The Five Winners
- Rob Hawkins – experienced centre with multiple international caps.
- Four other teammates – members of the 2022 World Cup winning side and among the sport's top performers.
Preparation and Objectives
Preparation began in January 2026 with a training camp in London, featuring intensive physical and tactical sessions. England will face Australia, Canada and Spain in the group stage before moving on to the knockout rounds.
Tournament History
The Wheelchair Rugby World Cup is held every four years. England claimed its maiden title in 2022 and now seeks to defend it on Australian soil for the first time. The tournament is expected to draw large crowds and heightened media attention.
The coach stresses that Hawkins' experience will boost the team's game management and defensive pressure. Fans will be watching closely as England's opening match kicks off in October.
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