Shaun Wane gives strong message to England team to improve ahead of Rugby World Cup

Shaun Wane warned his England players about their World Cup chances after they warmed up with a victory over New Zealand.

The England coach wanted his players to get a serious work-out ahead of their World Cup opener against Samoa on October 15 at Newcastle's St James' Park.

The Combined Nations All-Stars lineup featured some players who will be used against nations such as Samoa in the World Cup.

Jake Wardle opened the scoring for England, and George Williams added another try before the break. John Bateman then scored a third try after the break. The impressive pass from John was instrumental in Williams' second try.

Wane used to work with John at Wigan Warriors, and the Yorkshireman is a player he knows well. Despite his impressive performance, the coach insisted that he wasn't guaranteed a place in his team for the World Cup.

Wane also talked about the performance of St. Helens' Jack Welsby, who made his debut. He also claimed that Sam Tomkins could improve.

Wane praising his team

Despite the victory over New Zealand, the 57-year-old coach was still satisfied with his team's performance. He said that there were still areas where they could improve. The coach also praised the efforts of George Williams, but he said that Jack could play better.

"We did some really good things — and some things we need to get better — but it was more good than bad. I thought George was good, but Jack can play better than he did and I just want more from him," the coach said.

Wane praised Bateman's efforts, who quickly addressed some of the team's defensive issues. He said he was still concerned with his performance and believed he could do better. The coach added that several players could be considered for the World Cup, but he wasn't sure if John was one of them.

"There were a couple of defensive errors early on in the game and he got a message from me and he fixed it pretty quick. Overall he looked good, but I honestly, genuinely think he can do lot better. I'd say three or four players, if they are playing well, are nailed on to play against Samoa but I'm not sure John's one of them," said Wane.

Several places are up for grabs in the England team for the World Cup. Tomkins was one of the players who performed well during the game, but if his form dropped, he would be out of the tournament. Wane said there are more than 10 places up for grabs in the team.

Ken Sio scored a try for the All-Stars. Ellery Hanley, the coach of the All-Stars, said that there were areas where England could be vulnerable going into the World Cup. He added that he would not be able to point out the areas Shaun should and shouldn't do.

"There are some areas where England are vulnerable. You can’t paper over the cracks, but it’s not for me to point out the areas what Shaun should and shouldn’t do. I’ll see things differently to him," said Hanley.