Smithies isn't in the matchday squad.

Lewis on the bench, as expected

Good half from England. Really dominant. I'm surprised the commentators seem to think Samoa are struggling with the interpretation of the ruck. I think it's being reffed closer to an NRL game than an SL game, it's much quicker.

Davies and Noble are generally embarrassing and outdated.

Channel 4 did much better.

Didn't go but from the TV Newman seemed to have a better game than I expected. I was surprised he was selected though.

He's played well in all the games he's been selected for England. Wane and the team around him have been able to get a better return on his ability. Wane will continue to pick him while he plays well for England

I`m sure we can do better than those 2 with their lack of understanding on how the game is now played along with the stupid comment of "Johnny on the spot" it does my head in.
Not that I`m biased but Stevie Ward and Ryan Hall would be better options from what I`ve heard from them when guesting on Sky Sports.

Davies should have retired when French did.

His voice and nonsense comments just grate. The whole thing looks and sounds amateur

It`s either those 2 or Kev Brown with his broad Lancastrian accent or Jamie Peacock with his Yorkshire accent.
It`s no wonder people outside the M62 corridor don`t bother with RL.

I don't mind the ex players doing the preamble or half time chat.
It's the in game commentating that annoys me. They just chat nonsense, sound incredibly dull and have no charisma or enthusiasm.

The most amazing play could happen and the comment would be " how's that then? " .

Robbie Paul can do one. Brain and mouth seem to be disconnected. Talks ten to the dozen and adds nothing to anyone's understanding.

Jonathan Davies probably past it now but he's a recognisable figure for non RL fans in the audience. Those people are a bit thin on the ground - what's Kevin Sinfield up to?