31 October 2023 , 16:36
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Morgan Smithies has completed his big-money move to Canberra Raiders and been called into the England squad for Saturday’s clash with Tonga.
The Wigan Warriors star has emerged as one of the finest young back-rowers in Super League since making his debut in March 2019. He will move to the Australian capital on a three-year deal from next season after the Raiders paid what Wigan have called a “significant transfer fee” for his services.
The rugged Yorkshireman, noted for his aggression and remarkable work-rate, could feature along with Warrington rookie Josh Thewlis for the third Test at Headingley.
England boss Shaun Wane said: “We had a few niggles in training from the first Test, and I thought the second Test would be brutal so if we came unstuck with a few players, we were in trouble. Morgan and Josh have come in as a back-up but they were both really keen when I rang them. They’re ready to play.”
Numerous English talents have moved to the NRL in recent years and Wane reckons Smithies – who recently helped Wigan to the Super League title –will thrive down under.
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He added: “Morgan’s ball-carrying has improved, which it needed to, but he’s all-action and similar to Morgan Knowles. He’ll need to change a few things and improve on certain areas to make a strong mark over there because it’s a different competition, but the Aussies will love him.
“He defends and defends and he’s a great kid but it’s a different ball game over there. But I like him and he’s got a chance of playing on Saturday.”
England have also drafted in Warrington's Josh Thewlis (Getty Images)England second-rower Elliott Whitehead has proved a big hit since joining Canberra in 2016, earning the captain’s armband and establishing himself as one the finest English exports to the NRL.
Wane paid a glowing tribute to the 34-year-old, adding: “A few people said to me before I got the England job that I’d love Elliott. When I met him and coached him, trained with him and got to know him, I could see why.
“He does a lot of unseen things only a coach will see and he’s an outstanding individual. I rate him highly because he’s one of the best English players to go over there.”
England have already clinched the series but another win on Saturday would complete a 3-0 whitewash. Wane declared: “The motivation is high and there are areas we can improve on – but we will be better.”