Kangaroos coach Tim Sheens believes the displays of England's cricketers against Australia should act as a reminder about the threat of playing an English side on home soil.

With attention having largely been focused on world champions New Zealand, Australia's first opponents in their opening rugby league Four Nations clash on October 24, Sheens warned against ignoring the English.

The Kangaroos face Tony Smith's side on October 31 in Wigan and Sheens is expecting a huge test.

"We know a little about them all already, although a few of the Englishmen are guys we haven't seen a lot of," he said.

"England at home, as the cricketers often find out, if you take them for granted you can get ambushed.

"It would be easy to look at their form in the World Cup and write them off but they are a much better team at home.

"From what I am hearing they will be better prepared than last year."

Sheens is satisfied with the squad at his disposal and hinted he has a fair idea what his side will be for the opening game at the Stoop Stadium in London, with players who featured in the NRL finals in the box seat for selection.

"Part of it is looking at how many players you have that haven't played for a while," he said.

"Obviously grand final players come into contention in that regard ... but the basis will be around the side that played earlier this year with a number of other options.

"But I am really excited about having the chance to work with a team you wouldn't be able to fit under the salary cap.

"It is a pleasure to have good players available in every position and there is an element of excitment there."

Petero Civoniceva is also wary of the English but said he will tell the younger members of the squad to savour the opportunity of being on a Kangaroos tour.

"I think it is going to be a huge challenge for us. We have to play New Zealand first then the English side at home," he told AAP.

"They are always hard to play at home and with players like Adrian Morley spearheading their challenge it is going to be hard to play against them.

"This is why it is so important to get the tour off to a good start against the Kiwis so we can face them with confidence.

"But touring is such an enjoyable experience and I am so excited for the young guys, it is something you never forget."

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