Hanley and Savala Earn England Call-Ups as McDermott Strengthens World Cup Pool

England's Rugby League World Cup preparations have received a fresh injection of talent after head coach Brian McDermott added Leigh Leopards centre Umyla Hanley and Sydney Roosters playmaker Hugo Savala to his performance squad. The duo join an extended group of players under consideration for this autumn's showpiece tournament, with McDermott continuing to cast his eye over both domestic and overseas talent as he shapes a squad capable of competing on the biggest stage. Hanley's inclusion is a significant milestone for the Leigh Leopards centre, who has been rewarded for her performances in the women's game. Her call-up to the England performance setup reflects the growing depth of talent emerging through the women's domestic competition, and she now has a genuine opportunity to force her way into McDermott's tournament plans. Savala, meanwhile, brings NRL pedigree to the group. The Sydney Roosters halfback has been developing his game in one of the world's toughest rugby league environments, and his availability strengthens England's options in the pivotal playmaking positions. With halfbacks often proving the difference in high-stakes international fixtures, his addition gives McDermott greater tactical flexibility as the World Cup approaches. The performance squad model allows the England coaching staff to monitor, train and evaluate a wider pool of players before finalising the roster that will carry the nation's hopes this autumn. For players like Hanley and Savala, inclusion represents both recognition of their form and a platform to stake a claim for a place in the final selection. England head into the tournament with ambitions of going deep on home soil, and squad-building decisions like this one offer a glimpse into how McDermott is balancing established internationals with emerging talent. The blend of Super League experience and NRL exposure within the extended group suggests a squad being assembled with both immediacy and evolution in mind. For Hanley, the call-up is the latest step in a rapid rise, while for Savala it is a chance to translate his development in Australia's elite competition into international recognition. Both players will now look to impress during training camps and upcoming fixtures as the countdown to kick-off continues. With the Rugby League World Cup looming this autumn, every squad announcement carries added weight. McDermott's willingness to refresh his pool of players at this stage signals that places in the final squad remain very much up for grabs — and that form, wherever it is produced, will be rewarded. This article is based on reporting by Sky Sports.