Watkins replaces injured Smithies in England squad

Kallum 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. Kallum Watkins famously broke clear in the 2017 final against Australia, which England lost 6-0, only to be denied by a last-ditch tackle 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, in Watkins, head coach Brian McDermott has found a replacement he knows well having previously coached him during a trophy-laden spell at Leeds. "It's really unfortunate what has happened to Morgan with an injury picked up in training," said McDermott. "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. "I look forward to welcoming him