After much anticipation the four nations is back for our viewing pleasure. It has been almost two years since we have seen the best four rugby league nations do battle in this format, and almost five years since it has taken place on British soil. What makes this tournament all the more exciting is that with 2017 being a World Cup year, we will be sure to see all of the world’s best players on show as they step up preparations for the big trophy next year. London Skolars are especially pleased to announce they have tickets for the double header at the Ricoh Arena AND England vs Australia at the Olympic Park.
Australia as usual will be the team to beat, they have the most overall wins in the competition with two- those coming in 2011 and 2009. They are also the current World Champions after defeating New Zealand convincingly in the 2013 World Cup final 34-2. They have quality in abundance, with the skills they demonstrate a sight to behold. This is encapsulated perfectly by their half back pairing Cooper Cronk and Johnathan Thurston, a future immortal who is the current Clive Churchill, Dally M and world player of the year title holder. Although many point to the teams experience as a major factor in their ability to close games, critics claim the team is aging and struggles with more robust teams. Mal Meninga could combat that with a wealth of young exciting talent he has at his disposal, with the likes of Semi Radradra, Corey Oates and James Tedesco all in consideration. Whoever he decides to blood, it will be exciting to see them for what will probably be their first foray on UK soil.
New Zealand will again fancy themselves to go all the way and win this year’s Four Nations, as they are the current holders after they defeated Australia in the final at the WestPac stadium in Wellington 22-18. The kiwis are well known for their combination of aggression and flair. The pack features some of the most destructive players in the game such as Martin Taupau, Jason Taumololo and Jesse Bromwich. It is then complemented perfectly by the exhilarating Shaun Johnson and Isaac Luke. When New Zealand’s completion is high, they are almost impossible to beat.
Scotland are the qualifying nation that help to comprise this year’s four nations. Although they will be unfancied in this tournament as the fourth nation often are, they do not lack in ability. Their half back combination would not look out of place in the NRL. Danny Brough is one of the most creative players in the whole of Super League and a former man of steel, whilst Peter Wallace is enjoying some great form at the Penrith Panthers as they make their push for the NRL grand final. This will be their first appearance in the four nations and they will want to make sure they impress. London Skolars fans will also hope to see Oscar Thomas pull on the Scottish jersey after he served the club well in his loan period at the back end of this season.
Finally, England will be hoping they can go one further than their best effort and win the four nations. Their first international trophy since 1972. England’s squad is getting better year upon year, aided by several players testing themselves in the NRL with great success. Many will know of Sam Burgess’ success down under, but will not know as much about Josh Hodgson’s, the Hull KR hooker has been easily one of the top two hookers in this year’s competition. He has also been supported at Canberra by Elliot Whitehead, the former Bradford and Catalan man. If England’s players can bring their form into the four nations with Wayne Bennetts guidance, they will be a force to be reckoned with.
The four nations double header takes place on Saturday November 5th at the Ricoh Arena, England take on Scotland in the first fixture which is then followed by Australia vs New Zealand. These are priced at £20 adults and £10 concessions.
The following weekend on the 13th of November, England take on Australia at the Olympic Park. Tickets for this fixture are £25 adults and £15 for concessions. You can purchase these on the club website, simply click here.
