'War of Words' ahead of Test

RUGBY League's first Ashes series in 22 years gets underway today in London, with Shaun Wane's England set to go into battle against reigning world champions Australia across three Tests. Former stars-turned-pundits from across the globe have been making their predictions - issuing warnings, trading jabs, and calling for a competitive series.

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Brad Fittler has issued a stern warning to Australia, urging them not to underestimate their opponents despite many predicting a strong series win for the visitors.

Speaking on 2GB's Wide World of Sports Radio, Fittler said: “It will be tough, it always is. You think you're prepared, and then you go over there - all of a sudden they're in your face and the game falls their way. Before you know it, the 80 minutes go by so fast.”

Fittler, who expects the series to finish 2-1 to Australia, warned the Kangaroos about the importance of the opening Test.

“I like the way the English team have approached it,” Fittler continued. “They've set it up to win - Wembley first, then Liverpool and Headingley for the decider. That will be feral as. They've gone into this believing they can win.”

The former Australian halfback continued: “To win, we need to win the first one.