Watkins called up to England squad after Smithies injury

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 14 Oct, 15:38 · Archive

Kallum Watkins has been called up to England's Rugby League World Cup squad as a late replacement after Morgan Smithies was forced to withdraw through injury sustained in training. Smithies, a lock and second-row forward, is set to join Perth Bears for the 2027 NRL season.

Watkins, 35, will arrive in Perth before England's World Cup opener against Tonga on Saturday but will not feature in that match. He will be available for England's subsequent group matches against France and Papua New Guinea. This will be Watkins' fourth World Cup appearance, having previously featured in 2013, 2017 and 2022.

Head coach Brian McDermott, who previously coached Watkins at Leeds, said the loss of Smithies was unfortunate. "Morgan has been great since we entered camp. He's a real team player and his work ethic and toughness are qualities that we will certainly miss," McDermott said. "Kallum enjoyed a terrific season with Leeds this year and has been part of our England Performance Programme building into this World Cup." Watkins began his career as a centre before transitioning to the pack in recent years.

How it is being reported

• England rocked by injury on eve of World CupEngland have been rocked by injury on the eve of the Rugby League World Cup with Perth Bears-bound Morgan Smithies ruled out of the tournament.Sky Sports · 14 Oct, 15:12
• Watkins replaces injured Smithies in England squadKallum Watkins is called up as a late replacement to England's Rugby League World Cup squad after Morgan Smithies is forced to withdraw through injury.BBC News · 14 Oct, 15:11

In this story: Kallum Watkins · Morgan Smithies · Brian McDermott · England · Leeds Rhinos · Perth Bears · Perth · Tonga

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