Rugby League World Cup 2026: Kallum Watkins replaces injured Morgan Smithies in England squad
BBC Sport reports that Kallum Watkins has been called up to England's Rugby League World Cup squad as a late replacement for the injured Morgan Smithies.
Watkins, a 35-year-old second-row forward from Leeds Rhinos, has previously featured in the World Cup in 2013, 2017, and 2022. Although he will not play in England's opener against Tonga on Saturday, he is available for their other group matches against France and Papua New Guinea.
Coach Brian McDermott expressed his disappointment over Smithies' injury but expressed confidence in Watkins, having previously coached him 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... 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."