England cup hopes told to expect a "roo" awakening

British sport is on a high following the Lions’ 2-1 series win, Andy Murray’s Wimbledon exploits and the cricket team’s victory in the opening Ashes Test.

Cricket remains the most popular sport Down Under but a recent study showed rugby league close behind, with their all-conquering side tasting defeat only once since being shocked 34-20 by New Zealand in the 2008 World Cup Final. And with serious national pride at stake when Australia meet England at the Millennium Stadium on October 26 in the tournament opener, Sheens is confident his side will notch one up for the green and gold.

“What with the tennis and the Lions and everyone hoping to give us a good flogging in the cricket, I’m sure England will be looking to claim another scalp,” he said. “But I won’t be thinking too much about that.

“My aim is to get a fit, healthy team ready for that first game because it’s an important one.

“England have proved they can be a dangerous team at home. I don’t think they get enough credit for beating New Zealand twice since the World Cup. They offer a new challenge.

“But I’m confident in my team. There’s a lot to be done but I think we’re doing the right things and we’ll be ready.”

Australia are strong favourites but with New Zealand expected to be lying in wait for whoever finishes second in Group A it puts added pressure on the opening match.

England have proved to be a dangerous package, having beaten the Kiwis to make the final in the previous two Four Nations here but Sheens reckons there is plenty of danger throughout the draw.

“I think this will be the strongest World Cup we’ve had,” he said. “With Tonga and Samoa in there now there will be some really tricky games and it won’t just be about the usual big three. But New Zealand are the champions and you’d rather avoid them, so that first game means that much more.”

Australia will be taking on England in just over 100 days when RLWC2013 kicks off on October 26 at Cardiff’s Millennium Stadium. Follow on Twitter: @RLWC2013 for more information and to win tickets this Thursday

England cup hopes told to expect a "roo" awakening