England captain George Williams is set to return to the NRL after confirming his departure from Warrington after this year's World Cup.

Williams, who played for the Raiders in the 2021 and 2022 seasons, advised Wolves officials that he would be taking up an opportunity in the NRL in 2027.

“Warrington has been a huge part of my life and I’ve loved every minute of my time at the club," Williams said.

“Captaining this team and leading the boys out each week is something I’ll always be incredibly proud of.

“Myself and the club have been very open with each other throughout, and I’m grateful for the understanding and backing they’ve shown me.

“My focus now is fully on this season. I’ll continue to give everything I have for the badge, the playing group and the fans. I’m determined to finish my time here on a high.”

The 31-year-old playmaker is the third member of England's Ashes squad to sign with an NRL club for 2027, with Leeds centre Harry Newman and secondrower James McDonnell to join Perth Bears.

England captain George Williams and Kangaroos counterpart Isaah Yeo with the Ashes Trophy.

Dolphins centre Herbie Farnworth and lock Morgan Knowles, Roosters forward Victor Radley, Knights winger Dom Young, Raiders forwards Morgan Smithies and Matty Nicholson, Wests Tigers secondrower Kai Pearce-Paul and Titans fullback AJ Brimson are other members of the England squad already in the NRL. 

Williams has captained England since 2023 and is expected to be a member of the squad for the World Cup in October and November in Australia, New Zealand and Papua New Guinea.

However, with a new coach to be appointed for the World Cup following the departure of Shaun Wane after last year's 3-0 Ashes series loss to Australia, it is uncertain whether Williams will retain the captaincy.

England, who are ranked No.3 in the IRL World Rankings, will play their opening two RLWC26 matches in Perth against Tonga on October 17 and France on October 24 before meeting PNG in Wollongong on October 30.

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