Brown was a surprise inclusion in England's 2017 World Cup squad. He was not selected for the first two group games, with Gareth Widdop and Luke Gale being preferred as the starting halfbacks. Brown has given his first start in the final group game against France, with Widdop moving to the position. He retained his place for the 36–6 quarter final victory over Papua New Guinea, but was substituted at half time after suffering a concussion. He was cleared to play in time for the semi final against Tonga, helping England win 20–18 to reach the World Cup final for the first time in 22 years. Brown started once again at stand off in the final against Australia, which England went on to lose 0–6.