THE LIONS are back in international rugby league.
But Great Britain are not being dragged back into action just yet.
For England’s new badge has incorporated the iconic logo, just like the nation’s football team.
The new emblem, which will be in place for this year’s World Cup, is part of a rebranding by the Rugby Football League.
As well as the new national badge, they have unveiled a new company logo after deciding a change was needed.
Super League’s branding has already changed after a new sponsorship deal with betting firm Betfred.
But bringing back the lions will be the biggest difference when Wayne Bennett’s men take to the field in the Autumn.
A comeback for the Great Britain side is also on the agenda as a new international calendar is drawn up for between the World Cups this year and in 2021.
A second international tournament, like an extended Four Nations, is also proposed and the 2025 World Cup will be held in the USA and Canada.
But there could be a re-introduction in coming years of traditional tours, which see sides come over and play several matches.
The move on the badge is part of what the Rugby Football League calls a ‘new visual identity.’
A spokesman said: “Working in partnership with Matta, a specialist sports branding and communication agency who have worked with clients such as The FA and ECB, the Rugby Football League has created an identity that represents the game, is more recognisable to fans and is aligned with others like England and Betfred Super League.
“Based on stakeholder research and insight, the new changes will achieve a more unified approach for all of our major brands.
“The England logo, which sees the reintroduction of the three lions, will be introduced on the playing shirt for the 2017 Rugby League World Cup.”
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