England arrived Down Under with a singular ambition: to lift the trophy. That unwavering belief remains intact within the camp even after the disappointment of a grueling 3-0 Ashes series defeat to Australia, a contest in which the world’s number-one-ranked side proved superior across all three closely contested Tests.
That sobering Ashes experience has triggered significant structural change within the national setup. Shaun Wane has stepped down from his role as head coach, paving the way for Brian McDermott to take the reins. The former Leeds Rhinos boss has injected a fresh sense of tactical clarity and optimism into the squad, firmly believing that England possess the personnel required to implement a style of play capable of challenging and ultimately defeating the heavyweight nations, including Australia.
McDermott’s assessment of the recent Ashes whitewash focuses primarily on tactical execution rather than any intrinsic shortcomings within the playing group. He believes that the team’s struggles stemmed from their game plan rather than their raw ability. Consequently, the onus is now on the core playmakers to adapt and execute a dynamic, aggressive style of play that McDermott is convinced can secure victories on the global stage.
That tactical evolution faces its first major test on October 17, when England get their tournament underway against Tonga in Perth.
For halfback Smith, selection for the World Cup squad represents a milestone moment in his professional career and a chance to test himself against the world’s elite players in unfamiliar conditions.
"It is a proud moment for myself and my family, a first World Cup so I am really looking forward to it," Smith told Sky Sports. "It is my first time travelling abroad with my country so I am looking forward to it, but us pale lads, like me and Zach Eckersley, we might be struggling so we will need plenty of sun cream."
Beyond the personal milestones and logistical adjustments of touring abroad, Smith offered insight into the tactical shifts implemented by McDermott since taking charge. The new head coach has meticulously reviewed the attacking deficiencies shown during the Ashes series, particularly concerning how the team operates in attacking territory against elite defensive structures.
"Speaking to Brian [McDermott] as a spine and also individually, he felt like we missed quite a few opportunities in The Ashes where we were too deep on the add line and not ready to play," Smith explained.
"He wants us to take every play as an opportunity to score so I feel like that is what he is going to push for, especially when you are playing against Australia and New Zealand, those really good defensive teams. You don’t get many chances to score so when that arrives and opens up you have to take it."
England’s path through the tournament features a challenging group stage. Alongside their opening fixture against Tonga in Perth, they will face France and Papua New Guinea. Finishing inside the top spots of the group is essential to secure a coveted place in the semi-finals, keeping their championship aspirations alive.
While Australia command their status as the firm favourites to retain the global crown, England’s immediate focus is entirely locked on their familiar adversaries from the Pacific. Tonga represents a formidable opening hurdle, boasting a reputation for physical dominance and explosive power across the park.
Smith is no stranger to the threat posed by the Tongan side, having featured for England the last time the two nations met. He is acutely aware of the immense physical challenge awaiting the squad as they kick off their campaign, but he maintains that previous encounters provide valuable confidence.
"There is a lot of big lads there, especially for people like me. It is exciting, you want to start the tournament well," Smith added. "We start against a good team, we are looking forward to that challenge. I managed to play against them over here and it was really exciting, a really close game. Hopefully we can do the job again and get the win."
That quiet confidence is mirrored throughout the coaching staff. McDermott has wasted no time in establishing an ambitious culture since taking over the team leadership, ensuring that every player understands the ultimate objective from day one. There is a collective acknowledgment that while external observers may view England as outsiders compared to the host nation and other southern hemisphere powerhouses, internal expectations are set at the absolute peak of international rugby league.
"Brian [McDermott] has pushed from the start that we are going out there to win the World Cup," Smith said. "From our first meeting he has said that we are here to win. That is the mentality you want and you need. Even though we are not the favourites, you need to go in with that mentality or there is no point showing up."