Chair skills, quick brain – how O’Neill adapted to wheelchair rugby league

Finlay O’Neill has moved from running rugby league to wheelchair rugby league after a knee condition ended his prospects in the running game. The 21-year-old says the switch became a blessing, and his rapid progress has earned him a place in England’s squad to defend their World Cup title in Australia.

O’Neill had to learn to manoeuvre a rugby chair while catching, passing and reading play, despite already bringing strong rugby awareness to the sport. Since joining Halifax Panthers, he has won back-to-back domestic trebles and made his England debut in 2025, including playing in the Ashes in Australia. He is one of five World Cup debutants; England begin against Wales before facing the USA and Ireland.