England rugby league captain George Williams is set to undergo neck surgery, according to Warrington Wolves head coach Sam Burgess, as the player races against time to recover before the upcoming World Cup.
The 31-year-old half-back sustained the injury during Warrington’s Super League match against Catalans Dragons on 18 April, where he was shown a green card and required treatment before returning to finish the game. Burgess confirmed the injury would keep Williams out for an “extended period,” with surgery expected within the next week or two.
Williams, who has captained England since 2023, expressed disappointment but remained determined to return, telling Sky Sports during Warrington’s game against Wigan: “I got a knock and didn’t think it would be as serious as it was. I went for a scan and it’s not good news. I’ve had a couple of days to process it and obviously it’s disappointing, but I’ll have the surgery and look forward to hopefully the back complete of the year.”
The domestic Super League season concludes with the Grand Final on Saturday, 3 October, while England’s first World Cup match is scheduled against Tonga in Perth, Australia on 17 October. Burgess indicated that given the timing of the surgery and recovery, Williams is unlikely to feature in the World Cup tournament.
“I’m praying with everything I’ve got,” Williams said when asked about his hopes of playing for Warrington again this season. “It wouldn’t be a good way to go out and that’s why the news was so tough to take. I’ll be racing against the clock to get back and hopefully I can play here again.”
Williams is set to depart Warrington at the end of the 2026 season to return to the NRL and join the Dolphins for 2027. His absence will be a significant blow to both club and country, having contributed three tries and nine assists in Super League so far this year — only Leeds’ Brodie Croft (13) has more endeavor involvements than Williams in 2026.
England head coach Brian McDermott, appointed shortly before the injury announcement, stated he had “no intentions” to change captains prior to the World Cup, suggesting Williams would retain the role if fit enough to participate.
Burgess added that while the injury is unfortunate, the club is relieved it was identified early: “Hopefully he can create a great recovery and we’ll see him back [in action] – if it’s not this year, then hopefully next year.”
The Warrington head coach confirmed two long-term injury setbacks for the team ahead of their clash with Wigan Warriors, though details of the second injury were not disclosed.
As Williams prepares for surgery, fans and teammates await updates on his recovery, with the player’s leadership and on-field creativity sorely missed during what was expected to be his final season with the Wolves before his NRL return.