Robins' star Litten was one of the big winners from Ashes whitewash

HOOKER SEEMS A NEAR-CERTAINTY FOR ENGLAND'S WORLD CUP SQUAD

- By JOSH MCALLISTER

England's Jez Litten

(LEE PARKER/ GETTY IMAGES)

Rugby league's first Ashes series in 22 years ended in disappointment for England, who were condemned to a 3-0 defeat to world champions Australia after losses in London, Liverpool and Leeds.

For England, there was a debutant in AJ Brimson in the series, a handful of strong personal displays and a couple of players who may have played their last international game ahead of next year's World Cup down under.

Jez Litten was one of England's biggest positives. Having played a key role in Hull KR's success this season, the 27-year-old proved he belongs at the highest level.

His moment of the series came at Headingley, producing a dazzling run that bamboozled the Kangaroos, dummied past Reece Walsh and set up George Williams' try.

Litten had just one England cap before the series - off the bench against France in 2023 - but after starting the final two Tests, he looks a near-certainty for next year's World Cup squad.