When Shaun Wane announced his England squad for the Ashes last week, there was never going to be a perfect answer, with fans and pundits from across the world all offering differing opinions as to who should make the team. 

We have seen the likes of Sky Sports’ Brian Carney, Sydney Roosters coach Trent Robinson as well as plenty of supporters voice their opinions on his selections, with key arguments being Jake Connor’s omission and George Williams’ inclusion.

Now, another well-respected figure in the sport has given his thoughts on the squad. Mike “Stevo” Stephenson, the legendary commentator and former Great Britain international has delved into Wane’s picks, and analysed some choices that he believes are questionable.

Speaking on his own podcast, which he co-hosts with his former commentary partner Eddie Hemmings, one of those players that he disagrees with is John Bateman, the former Wigan Warriors and current North Queensland Cowboys back-rower. Bateman is a seasoned England international and worked under Wane at Wigan prior to his exit to the NRL in 2019.

However, Stephenson believes that an underwhelming 2025 season, as well as better options in his position, mean he should not have been picked for the three-Test series.

“He [Wane]’s gone for experience, there’s no doubt about that,” he said. “There are quite a few who he has selected that stun me and I just can’t believe that John Bateman has been selected. He didn’t have a great season down under.”

Stephenson also thinks that the squad is an aging one, with many players over the age of 30 being selected. Whilst that is a benefit in terms of having that experience in the side, he does have doubts whether it is enough to compete with the Aussies.

“There’s quite a few out there shall we say who are at the end of their careers but Shaun has made it quite clear that he knows what this squad can do,” he said.

“He doesn’t have to build up their confidence because there are so many experienced players in that squad and that’s a mighty help. If we can produce collectively a performance in defence like Hull KR did in the Grand Final then we’ve got a chance.”

One England player the legendary commentator is happy to see involved is AJ Brimson

Yes, the former Queensland representative is someone who Stephenson is looking forward to watching don the England jersey.

Labelling him a “great advantage to have”, Brimson’s versatility will be key should the England boss need to call on him. Wane even went as far as calling him a “perfect” player for this type of series, and will bring NRL quality to the England back line.

On the Gold Coast Titans full-back, Stephenson said: “[He] is a very good player and he has played a State of Origin game for Queensland but through his mother’s heritage, he made it quite clear he wanted to play for England.

“He’s a very versatile three-quarter. He can play full-back or play stand-off or scrum-half. He’s very very quick and I think it’s a great advantage for England to have him there.

“It will be difficult to see if he’ll take the gamble and play him from the start or play him from the bench to give a lift but he’s a very very talented player.”