Aussies pick Peters' brain in search for vital Ashes edge

A meeting in London earlier this week aimed to clarify the rule interpretations for the Ashes series, following a rigorous training session where British referee Liam Rush and Hull KR coach Willie Peters provided the Kangaroos with insights into the standards of play in Britain.

Peters, who is part of Kevin Walters' coaching staff, guided players during tackling drills, illustrating how long a Super League referee would permit them to hold down opponents-an important distinction. Rush later oversaw a scrimmage against the French national team, which the Aussies secured with a 4-0 victory, thanks to a try by Keaon Koloamatangi.

Australian-born Super League referee James Vella is set to visit the Kangaroos' base in Kensington to further deliberate on the officiating framework for the series.

These discussions could significantly influence the Kangaroos' performance, especially considering the historical context, as they faced surprising defeats at Wembley in 1973, 1990, 1994, and during the 1995 World Cup.

While no refereeing appointments have been confirmed, it is expected that a British referee will officiate the first Test next Saturday, with an Australian taking the second match in Liverpool the following week, and the best-performing official will take charge of the third match in Leeds. Liam Moore (Britain) and Grant Atkins (Australia) are among the names circulating in discussions about possible referees.