Twist in Radley's Ashes plan as star calls England coach
Moderated by Tomas Kauer 
Victor Radley's next professional rugby league game won't be until mid-2026 after the Roosters star withdrew himself from England's Ashes selection.
England coach Shaun Wane revealed overnight the 27-year-old will not feature in the three-game series against Australia, which starts at Wembley Stadium on October 25.
"Victor has been an outstanding player for England for the last three years, but we respect his decision," Wane said.
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"We need 24 players who are fully focused on the historic opportunity of facing Australia in an Ashes series."
Radley has played nine Test matches for England since debuting in 2022. He has never faced Australia, who he was also eligible for before switching allegiances.
Last week he was whacked with a 10-game ban and $30,000 fine by the Roosters after he was caught up in a drugs scandal involving former teammate Brandon Smith.
While Radley was not charged and there was no evidence he took illicit substances, the Chooks handed down the heftiest club-imposed sanction in their long history.
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He narrowly avoided the sack after club chairman Nick Politis was convinced not to tear up Radley's contract.
On Tuesday, Radley revealed Wane had called him following the saga, and said he was keen to play for England.
"First thing he said is 'I've got your back'," Radley told 9News.
"He obviously didn't know too many details at the time but he looked into it, and he said 'I want you to play for England'.
"I was extremely grateful for that phone call because during difficult times it's good to hear that people like him have your back."
Wane will name his England squad on October 15.
New Kangaroos coach Kevin Walters is expected to name his squad a day or two after the NRL grand final on October 5.
