"A huge regret": Ryan Hoffman opens up on big career disappointment

Many of today's NRL stars have yet to experience the unique rivalry brought about by an Ashes Series between Australia and England. The last comprehensive Ashes Series recorded was in 2003, while various World Cups and Four Nations tournaments have recently overshadowed this historic competition, which is as old as rugby league itself.

Following the Grand Final this weekend, a Kangaroo squad will be announced to participate in the first Ashes series in 22 years. Consequently, as Australia heads to the UK for three tests this October, former Kangaroo and NSW Blue Ryan Hoffman, though long retired, faces the daunting prospect of being a jealous onlooker once more.

Hoffman, a member of the Melbourne Storm's team of the decade alongside future immortals such as Cameron Smith and Billy Slater, represented Australia six times between 2008 and 2014. He stood out in the Centenary Test in 2008 and faced off against teams like the Kiwis and France during Four Nations tournaments. Despite his accomplishments, a strange twist of fate prevented him from ever competing against the traditional rival, England.