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. The 35-year-old Leeds Rhinos second-row forward is set to take part in his fourth World Cup, having previously featured in 2013, 2017 and 2022.
The loss of lock and second-row forward Smithies, who is set to join Perth Bears for the 2027 NRL season, comes as a blow to England. However, head coach Brian Mc Dermott has found a replacement he knows well, having previously coached Watkins during a trophy-laden spell at Leeds. "It's really unfortunate what has happened to Morgan with an injury picked up in training," said Mc Dermott. "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."
"Kallum enjoyed a terrific season with Leeds this year and has been part of our England performance programme building into this World Cup," Mc Dermott added. "I look forward to welcoming him into camp as we step up our preparations."
Watkins, who has 32 caps, is set to arrive in Perth before England's World Cup opener against Tonga on Saturday (10:05 BST), but will not play in that match. He started his career as a centre before shifting into the pack in recent years and will be available for England's other group matches against France and Papua New Guinea.
Source: BBC Sport · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing