ST GEORGE Illawarra stars James Graham and Gareth Widdop, and the three Burgess brothers have been included in England’s 19-man squad for the Denver Test match against New Zealand on June 23.

It marks the return of George Burgess, who missed selection in last year’s World Cup. His irresistible form for the Rabbitohs has seen him rejoin brothers Sam and Tom.

The event is a historic occasion for the game being the first international Test match to be staged in North America for over 18 years.

Wayne Bennett will also bring in three Super League stars uncapped at international level in Jake Connor, Luke Thompson and Tommy Makinson.

“I have selected a strong squad that I believe has the ability and talent to beat New Zealand in Denver. The game is going to be a tough one but we will go into it with confidence,” Bennett said.

“We have been impressed with all the players this season and the three uncapped players deserve their call ups after showing their talent and determination both on and off the field. “We have always been clear that the door to the senior squad is open to any player showing the form to be selected.

“The squad has a real mix of experience and youth and that will prove important during our time in Denver.”

The super coach backed the mid-year Test concept, saying it is an “invaluable” experience for the players.

“Playing a mid-season test against Samoa last year proved invaluable and I’m sure this will be the same,” he continued.

“It gives the team a chance to spend time together and me and my coaching staff to see how they perform together against one of the best teams in the world ahead of the International Test Series in the Autumn.”

FULL SQUAD
John Bateman (Wigan)

George Burgess (South Sydney)

Sam Burgess (South Sydney)

Tom Burgess (South Sydney)

Jake Connor (Hull FC)

James Graham (St George Illawarra)

Ryan Hall (Leeds)

Chris Hill (Warrington)

Jonny Lomax (St Helens)

Tommy Makinson (St Helens)

Jermaine McGillvary (Huddersfield)

Sean O’Loughlin (Wigan)

Mark Percival (St Helens)

Stefan Rathford (Warrington)

James Roby (St Helens)

Luke Thompson (St Helens)

Gareth Widdop (St George Illawarra)

George Williams (Wigan)

Elliott Whitehead (Canberra)