David Fifita “100% keen” on bringing Exiles back for England test
Wakefield prop David Fifita says he would love to see the Exiles team return to face England.
England’s three-match Ashes series against Australia this autumn has been left in limbo after the NRL announced their Grand Final will take place on October 25, with the State of Origin series being played in November.
The Kangaroos are scheduled to play England at Bolton (October 31), Leeds (November 7) and Tottenham (November 14) later this year.
At the time of writing, England coach Shaun Wane believes the Ashes will go ahead but if it is called off, he revealed he would be open to the idea of the Exiles making a comeback.
Wane told Sky Sports’ Golden Point Podcast: “Some of the (overseas) talent over here is unbelievable.
“I’m thinking the Ashes is on and the World Cup is on. If it’s a case that the Ashes is off, then a mid-season match – whether an official test or a match against the Exiles, I’m not bothered – I just want them to play the way I was talking about.”
Wakefield favourite Fifita has previously made it clear that he would love for the Exiles to reform and provide a mid-season international for England.
The Exiles were a team of overseas players in Super League – but the concept was cancelled in 2013 after two years.
Fifita said: “100% I want to see it return.
“Australia and New Zealand have got each other over there so they’ve always got a quality game, and the Pacific teams play each other so they (southern hemisphere) have always got quality games.
“I do feel sorry for the England boys over here because they’ve got nobody. If you put them against France and stuff like that then everyone knows it’ll be an easy game for England.
“So what better way to get the Exiles back? I’m sure it would pack out a whole stadium and the imports over here would make a fair good squad.
“I’d be happy if it goes ahead and I’d be happy to take part if I’m selected for it. If I’m not selected, then I’d fight for the boys in the future.”
Watch our Last Tackle podcast, featuring a guest, every week. SUBSCRIBE to Love Rugby League on YouTube.
Listen to The Final Hooter podcast, featuring exclusive interviews, every week. SUBSCRIBE to Love Rugby League on Apple Podcasts.
More on site
Bobbie Goulding reveals his blue print for Super League
NRL dream XIII based on top try scorers in each position
My Set of Six: with Leigh utility Craig Mullen featuring Sam Tomkins & that Liam Farrell try