Martin Offiah believes England are ready to break a decades-long drought and topple Australia in this year’s historic Ashes series, backing Shaun Wane’s side to deliver on home soil.
With just 100 days until the opening Test kicks off at Wembley on 25 October, the legendary former winger has been unveiled as an official ambassador for the series. Offiah joined a host of past and present stars in London on Wednesday to help build momentum for the first Ashes showdown in 22 years.
“Can England win the Ashes this autumn? Absolutely,” Offiah told Love Rugby League.
“We know it’s not going to be easy because this is rugby league at the very highest level and against Australians who ply their trade in the NRL every single week. But England have a number of players with NRL experience… the potential in this England side under Shaun Wane is huge.”
‘I’m totally overjoyed to be involved’
The 59-year-old, who scored in two memorable victories over Australia in the late ’80s, says England’s recent form, including series wins over Tonga and Samoa, proves they have what it takes.
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“I scored in that game [in 1988] as well and know what it’s like to beat Australia in back-to-back Test matches,” he said. “I’m excited for the series already.”
Offiah’s ambassadorial duties will include attending events and promoting ticket sales for the Wembley opener, an occasion that carries personal significance.
“With the first game being at Wembley, and me being from London, plus all my history of playing there, it means so much,” he said. “My first-ever Wembley try was the opening Ashes game in 1990… I remember that day fondly.”
Now, with stars like George Williams and Herbie Farnworth preparing to take centre stage, Offiah is hopeful they’ll inspire a new generation, just as past Ashes clashes did for him.