sport

Harris names Wales squad

Wales coach Iestyn Harris has named his initial 19-man squad for his side's Four Nations opener against England at Leigh.

As expected, Warrington captain Lee Briers returns as captain after sitting out last weekend's convincing warm-up win over Ireland.

Briers will be making his 21st appearance for his country while Swinton's much-travelled playmaker Ian Watson is poised to win a record-extending 29th cap.

Chris Beasley has been ruled out with an ankle injury while Geraint Davies - called up on Wednesday as replacement for the now retired Gareth Thomas - Andrew Gay, Mark Lennon and Lee Williams are left out.

Three debutants from the Ireland game - Peter Lupton, Tyson Frizell and Matt Seamark - are also included.

Harris said: "It was a very difficult decision to choose the 19-man squad as last week's game against Ireland was a very good all-round team performance.

"It will be even more difficult to cut two more out of the squad for Saturday."

Wales squad to face England at Leigh Sports Village on Saturday: A Bracek (Crusaders), L Briers (Warrington), N Budworth (MacKay Cutters), R Divorty (Featherstone), G Dudson (Crusaders), B Flower (Crusaders), T Frizell (Cronulla), A James (South Wales Scorpions), J James (Crusaders), D Jones (Halifax), C Kopzcak (Bradford), E Kear (Crusaders), P Lupton (Crusaders), C Roets (South Wales Scorpions), M Seamark (Wynnum Manly), I Watson (Swinton), I Webster (Central Comets), L White (Crusaders), R Williams (Warrington).