You’re right!

There’s also the 3-0 series whitewash of New Zealand in 2007 and an International origin series win in 2013.I’m sure I’m not the only one on these boards who’s so obsessed with the lack of success against Australia over the years that I forget other victories. My bad.

Tomkins would be another candidate for me. He's really developed at NZ warriors I think he'll be a leader when he returns for england in the autumn.

Not seen any NRL this year (first time in a long time) was going to ask how he was getting on

Shaun Johnson will be gutted at the news.

Why?

Agree it's good news for Leeds and GB...sorry...England.

At the end of 2016 season he will be 36 I think he may call it a day then

Great news for Leeds, not sure it's particularly good news for England.
He was MOM in most of our WC games last year, bettered only by Burgess in the semi.

Yes he had a brain fart in the dying seconds of the semi but should never have been put in that position. His previous 79 minutes which included the setting up of 2 of England's tries were possibly his best in an international jersey.

Well said - unfortunately too many are besotted with the fact that Sinny isn't a flamboyant half back. Fortunately those who's opinions matter (ie players/coaches) would most likely tell you he's the best all round captain England have had in the SL era. International RL will never succeed when its own fans can't recognise quality in a player who doesn't play for their club. Very sad!

Yep that "brain fart" was totally insignificant and unimportant in the greater scheme of things.

Given he had no chance if being around for the next WC then right to go. (Same possibly for O'Loughlin and Westwood)

Had this years four nations been held in England then I think he might've stayed on. Not as much as a toil compared to spending several weeks as a touring team. Also we stand a slight chance when it's held here.....when it's in Oz it's pretty much zero chance of winning.

Whilst I still think Sinfield is good enough to play for England for another couple of years he wouldn't be around for the next World Cup. So I think it's the right move for England as we should use the 3 years to build for the World Cup.

I'd be looking to secure a spine of the team of:
1. Hardaker
6. Tomkins
7. Widdop
9. Roby
14. Clark/Burrow

They're all quality players and bar injury I think we need these playing together as much as possible prior to the next World Cup.

As for captain, I'd go with O'Loughlin and Graham as vice captain, lining up to take over whenever O'Loughlin retires.