Oledzki hoping for “Dream Come True” Return

Leeds Rhinos and England prop Mikolaj Oledzki says Saturday’s third and final ABK Ashes Series Test against Australia at AMT Headingley will be “a dream come true,” as he prepares to represent his country at his home ground for the first time.

Oledzki returned to the international stage last weekend in England’s second Test against the Kangaroos at Everton’s stadium, his first appearance for the national side in two years. And while the defeat ended hopes of taking the series to a decider, the Rhinos forward says there’s still huge motivation to finish the campaign in style.

“The camp has been intense but really enjoyable,” Oledzki said. “Obviously, after last week, it's been a bit heartbreaking for the boys that we couldn't take it to a decider at AMT Headingley. Nevertheless, it's been a great experience. The beauty of sport is we get another chance this week to finish the series on a high. There's no better place to do it than at AMT Headingley, a place rich in history.”

Having spent his entire professional career at Leeds, Oledzki admits the chance to pull on the England shirt at AMT Headingley is something truly special.

“I've spent all my career at the Rhinos, from a very young age,” he continued. “AMT Headingley has been my home ground, so to run out there in an England jersey would mean the world to me. I’m representing my family and the people of Leeds as well. I know how much it means to them, and to all the Rugby League fans in England. I’m sure they’ll give the Aussies a proper northern welcome.”

Oledzki expects a typically fiery Yorkshire atmosphere for the final Test, with the Rhinos’ home ground already sold out.

“It's going to be a hostile atmosphere for the Aussies,” he smiled. “The beauty of it is that the fans are pretty much right near the field so you can hear everything they say. The noise that echoes around the stadium is fantastic. When I play for Leeds in a big game against someone like Wigan on a Friday night, the atmosphere is electric – and to have a sellout crowd there this week, it will be incredible.”

The 26-year-old’s return to the England side comes after a testing spell with injuries and form, and he admits it took some honest reflection to rediscover his best.

“It's been a pretty tough two years since my last England cap,” he said. “I had to have some tough conversations and had to look in the mirror a few times. I probably felt sorry for myself a few times, just looking for the answers in the wrong places. So, to work my way back into this position, honestly, I'm full of gratitude and absolutely honoured to be here. Every time I pull the England jersey on it means the world to me. I'm representing my family, my kids, my partner. It's a special moment every time.”

That sense of pride was heightened last week when Oledzki was presented with his England shirt by Leeds Rhinos and England kit man Glynn Bell – a man who has been part of his rugby journey since the beginning.

“It caught me off guard because I didn't expect it, but it was a special moment for me and I'm sure it would have been for Glynn too,” Oledzki revealed. “Glynn's brother signed me as a kid for the Rhinos, and Glynn's always been alongside me on my journey through the Scholarship, Academy and into the first team. He’s always been there – he’s pretty much like family. To have him present me with my England shirt last week, after the last few years as well, it was quite emotional. It meant a lot to me. I'm sure it meant a lot to him too, but he's a special guy who always puts others first. I'm very honoured to have received my shirt from him.”

 

 

 

 

 

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With the Ashes already decided in Australia’s favour, Oledzki insists England’s focus is firmly on finishing strong — both for pride and as preparation for what lies ahead.

“Next year is another exciting year with the World Cup coming around,” he said. “I think it's crucial that we finish the series on a high and have something to build on going into next year. But also, Australia coming over to England – it’s a non-negotiable that we don’t allow them to get three on us. It’s crucial we get the win and show the English people how proud we are.”

England face Australia in the third and final ABK Ashes Series Test at AMT Headingley this Saturday. The game is sold out but supporters can watch the game live on BBC One with coverage from 2pm.