England head coach Brian McDermott has opted to leave his team unchanged for Saturday's Rugby League World Cup fixture against France in Perth, sticking with the lineup that were beaten by Tonga in their opening match.
Squad continuity
The decision to persevere with the same personnel signals a vote of confidence from McDermott in his players despite the setback. The unchanged selection suggests the coaching staff believe continuity, rather than wholesale changes, gives England the best chance to regain momentum.
The defeat by Tonga left England needing a positive result to revive their tournament hopes. With limited time to turn things around, the forthcoming game in Perth is presented as an opportunity for the side to respond and arrest any loss of confidence.
Challenge in Perth
France will travel to Australia knowing England will be aiming to reassert themselves, and the match represents a key early test for both nations in the group stage.
McDermott's choice to maintain the same team will focus attention on how the players adapt and improve their performance under pressure. Matchday in Perth will be an important indicator of whether England can recover from their opening-round defeat and progress in the World Cup.