Injuries have limited coach Shaun Wane’s options and he has made some surprising calls in leaving Ryan Hall, Andy Ackers, Joe Batchelor and Mikiolaj Oledzki out of his 19-man squad for the opener at St James’s Park in Newcastle.
England will need to be on top of their game to get anything from the game which is being televised live on the BBC. Here’s how Wane’s side could line up.
7. Stand-off: Jack Welsby
The halves are one of the areas not set in stone, but Welsby is an outstanding talent and he could get the nod - ahead of Marc Sneyd - to play alongside George Wilkliams. Photo: Paul Currie/SWpix.com
8. Prop: Tom Burgess.
Now one of the more experienced players in England's squad, Burgess will need to stand tall against Samoa's strong pack. Photo: Allan McKenzie/SWpix.com
9. Hooker: Michael McIlorum
Whether the Leeds-born Catalans Dragons number nine is the best English player in his position is open to debate, but he's the only hooker in the 19. Photo: Paul Currie/SWpix.com
10. Prop: Luke Thompson
Faces this calibre of opposition every week in the NRL and will need to be on his game to get England going forward. Photo: Allan McKenzie/SWpix.com
11. Second-row: Elliott Whitehead
Another proven NRL performer who will be needed to set a big lead. Photo: David Neilson
12. Second-row: Morgan Knowles
Had a big season for St Helens and might get in ahead of Mike McMeeken, particularly with the latter carrying an injury. Photo: Paul Currie/SWpix.com