Kallum Watkins Replaces Injured Smithies in England Rugby League World Cup Squad
The veteran forward is set to participate in his fourth World Cup.
Kallum Watkins has been named as a late replacement in England's Rugby League World Cup squad, stepping in after Morgan Smithies was forced to withdraw due to injury. Watkins, a 35-year-old second-row forward for Leeds Rhinos, will be participating in his fourth World Cup, having previously featured in the 2013, 2017, and 2022 tournaments.
The absence of Smithies, a lock and second-row forward who is set to join Perth Bears for the 2027 NRL season, is considered a setback for the England team. However, head coach Brian McDermott expressed confidence in Watkins, whom he previously coached during a successful period at Leeds. "It's really unfortunate what has happened to Morgan with an injury picked up in training," McDermott stated. "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 added, "Kallum enjoyed a terrific season with Leeds this year and has been part of our England performance programme building into this World Cup. I look forward to welcoming him into camp as we step up our preparations."
Watkins, who has earned 32 caps for England, is expected to arrive in Perth before England's opening World Cup match against Tonga on Saturday, though he will not feature in that game. He began his career as a centre before transitioning to the forwards in recent years. Watkins will be available for England's subsequent group stage matches against France and Papua New Guinea.