Jez Litten is aiming high and knows how big the next two weeks are.
Hull KR hooker Jez Litten was named in this year’s Super League Dream Team.
Star hooker Jez Litten is fully focused on helping Hull KR secure their first-ever Super League title and complete a historic treble – but he also knows the next two weeks could be pivotal in earning an Ashes call-up.
Litten is gearing up to face St Helens this weekend, with just 80 minutes separating Hull KR from a return to Old Trafford.
Having already claimed the League Leaders’ Shield and the Challenge Cup – with Litten playing a crucial role in both triumphs – the Robins are targeting a clean sweep of trophies. The winner of Saturday’s clash at Sewell Group Craven Park will meet either Wigan Warriors or Leigh Leopards in Manchester on October 11.
Litten, who made his England debut in a 64-0 rout of France in 2023, was named in Shaun Wane’s extended squad earlier this year and is a leading contender for the international number nine shirt to face reigning world champions Australia this autumn.
But the 27-year-old knows the importance of the next fortnight both for club and for country.
“I hope I’m in the conversation for the Ashes,” Litten said.
“There’s a lot of other great hookers in the league, but my full focus is on semi-finals and I’ve got a job to do at Hull KR.
“Hopefully if I can [be successful], I can put myself in the conversations for the Ashes at the end of the year.”
Litten was named in this year’s Super League Dream Team alongside fellow England hopeful Dean Hadley, who was a surprise omission from Wane’s original squad.
Hull KR captain Elliot Minchella, reigning Man of Steel Mikey Lewis and industrious back-rower James Batchelor were also included in the international train-on squad in June.
Australia are set to tour for the first Ashes series in 22 years, with the three-match series kicking off at Wembley on October 25.
“I think there’s a few in our team that have put themselves in the conversation,” Litten added.
“We’ve had a consistent year, so hopefully a few of our boys can get selected.”