TOYOTA AND LEXUS PUT WHEELS UNDER ENGLAND’S BID FOR RUGBY LEAGUE WORLD CUP GLORY

Toyota and Lexus are helping keep England’s Rugby League World Cup heroes ahead of the game, providing a fleet of vehicles for the national team’s overseas players and physio.

The support during the five-week-long competition builds on the partnership Toyota has forged with the Rugby Football League as its official car supplier.

Forwards James Graham, Sam Burgess, George and Thomas Burgess and full back Gareth Widdop have returned from their club duties in Australia to don England shirts, and while they are back on these shores they have been given the keys to the latest Lexus IS and GS models. Physio Meirion Edwards, meanwhile, is at the wheel of a Toyota Avensis, built in the heart of England.

The five cars, emblazoned with special England Rugby League livery, were handed over to the players by Toyota and Lexus Fleet Services at Mottram Hall, the team’s training base in Cheshire, just ahead of last weekend’s opening cup match.

Toyota spokesman said: “We’re proud to be supporters of the Rugby Football League and the England team. Having the use of the Lexus models will help make life less stressful and a little more luxurious for those players who travelled half way around the world to play for their country. The Avensis should also serve as a completely relaxing and reliable drive for the physio.”

England team spokesman said: “On behalf of England Rugby League, I would like to thank Toyota for providing a fleet of vehicles for our players and staff. The England personnel are delighted to drive such fantastic vehicles and to promote the Toyota and England brand across the country. Having this outstanding service from one of our key partners enables the payers to fully concentrate on preparing for success in the World Cup on home soil. These are the small things that mean a great deal in developing a successful winning environment.”

This summer Toyota signed a three-year agreement with the Rugby Football League to become its official vehicle supplier, initially supplying the organisation with 50 British-built Auris hatchbacks.