This highly anticipated opener could go either way. I wouldn't read to much into England's friendly defeat by Italy, as they will be fired up for this one, and the forwards will have a big part to play. The Aussies could be a bit rusty having not played any friendlies at all.

Australia's team is obviously better, but IMO their team selection is wrong. Had Jennings and Hayne been chosen ahead of Tate and Brett Morris, their 3/4 line would look far more dangerous and dynamic. I also reckon that Cherry-Evans if not starting at 7 should at least have been on the bench as the utility player.

Prediction - Australia by 8

What a week. First we have players going on the lash and hock failing to attend a training session. Followed by half the superleague clubs walking out of a rfl/hetherington ambush and now mcnamara having his own walkout. So I'm expecting the aussies to get into the spirit of things with half their team refusing to take the field for the second half in protest at englands contempt for the game. So fingers crossed we take advantage of this and keep the scoreline respectable.

Obvious thing to say, but I think the longer England can keep it tight, the closer the final score will be.

I suspect we'll keep it close for the first 5 minutes or so!

I would be happy if there is just few points in it right the way through to the end,but feel that our preparations have been hampered by the shenanigans of last weekend in the game and players disobeying rules will have a detrimental effect on us.
I just hope we don't get humiliated a it could turn the whole competition into a further laughing stock. On the other hand though, it might get us some space in the papers.

Hope none of you are gambling men!

I was really pleased for Chris Hill. He had an outstanding game and got himself noticed (in my opinion). When you consider he was with Leigh in 2011 and only 2 years later steps up against a team which represents the pinacle of our game - top marks to the lad. Fully deserves his place for me - he must be a right grafter to get himself up there.