Harry Newman believes England can topple Australia in the Ashes later this year and end a 19-year winless drought.

England or Great Britain have not beaten the Kangaroos in a match since 2006, and the two old rivals have not faced off since the 2017 World Cup final. Australia have held the Ashes since 1973.

But since the 2022 World Cup semi-finals England have been unbeaten with back-to-back victories over France and impressive series wins against both Tonga and Samoa.

With a host of NRL stars in their ranks, such as Herbie Farnworth and Dom Young, and with both St Helens and Wigan defeating Penrith Panthers in recent years, Newman feels England are growing towards something special.

“Definitely, you only have to look at what Wigan have done in the last World Club Challenge, and St Helens the one before that, they both beat Penrith who everyone said was the best team in the world,” he told Everything Rugby League.

“But Wigan have that title. I think England are building nicely, three wins over Tonga in 2023 and then to beat Samoa, that’s two great teams.

“But I think the Aussies coming over will be a different test. Three games will be really exciting and should bring many spectators to those games as well.

“It’s the pinnacle [playing the Kangaroos]. Testing yourself against the best players in the world, they’ve obviously won the last few World Cups, some of the best players in the world play for Australia.

“So it’s a shame we’re not going there with the warm weather. But to be involved in that would be great.”

Newman made his England debut against Tonga in St Helens in 2023. The Leeds star has bagged one try in five caps for his country.

The Ashes series, which was last played in 2003, is to take place in the UK this October and November.

While the venues have to be announced, Newman is backing Elland Road to host a Test.

“They’ve played a few there over the years and they’ve sold out, and they’ve been huge crowds, so I don’t think it would be a bad idea,” the centre said.

“But anywhere you put the England jersey on is special and hopefully I’ll be a part of those games.”