Rugby League World Cup final: Chris Heighington handed England recall as James Roby replaces Josh Hodgson
The 34-year-old Cronulla second rower has been handed the vacant bench spot, with Roby starting at hooker in place of the injured Hodgson
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Veteran forward Chris Heighington has been recalled by England for the World Cup final against Australia.
The 34-year-old Cronulla second rower has been handed the vacant bench spot, with James Roby starting at hooker in place of the injured Josh Hodgson.
It is the only change to the team that survived a torrid late onslaught to beat Tonga in last Saturday's semi-final in Auckland.
Roby, who won his 30th cap at Mount Smart Stadium, is the only other specialist hooker in head coach Wayne Bennett's 24-man squad and will be expected to play long minutes at the Suncorp Stadium.
Instead of opting for Stefan Ratchford or George Williams to provide back-up, Bennett will now hope Roby can get through most, if not all, of Saturday's game.
Heighington played in England's opening two matches of the World Cup against Australia and Lebanon but sat out the last group game against France as well as the two knock-out games so far.
Captain Sean O'Loughlin has been named in the team as he battles to shake off a quad injury sustained in the semi-final.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments