A SERIES against Samoa at the back end of next year could once again be on the cards for England.

The prospect of the Samoans following fellow Pacific Islanders Tonga in heading to the northern hemisphere for a post-season tour looked to be dead and buried earlier this month, when it was revealed they had rejected the invite to face Shaun Wane’s side.

However, International Rugby League have now announced that Rugby League Samoa have agreed to “re-engage” with the Rugby Football League about the tour, which was considered a key part of England’s build-up to the next World Cup in 2026.

The last time Samoa were in England, they reached their first ever World Cup final last year by beating the host nation in golden-point extra time at Arsenal’s Emirates Stadium before losing to Australia at Old Trafford.

“I am excited by the new direction and vision of Rugby League Samoa, their improved capability and plans for the growth of rugby league in Samoa," IRL chair Troy Grant said.

“It is pleasing that they understand how important Samoa is to the international rugby league family and I was very impressed by their positive approach towards helping to build the game in the Northern Hemisphere.

“Rugby League Samoa will work with the IRL and RFL to understand any hurdles needed to overcome in making the tour a successful reality and continue to build on the wonderful legacy they have recently achieved.”

England are due for an Ashes tour of Australia in 2025 before the World Cup in the southern hemisphere the following year.

A European international competition is also being worked on to coincide with the desired Samoan tour of England in 2024.

England have a mid-season international fixture - believed to be an away Test against France - pencilled in for the final weekend in June.