Hunslet duo aiming for Scotland World Cup spots

Hunslet duo Joe McClean and Tom Ashton are targeting spots in Scotland’s squad for this autumn’s World Cup.

Prop or back-rower Joe McClean played in Scotland’s last match, the World Cup qualifier against Greece in London in November 2019, which the Bravehearts won 42-24. He qualifies to play for Scotland through his mother.

McClean said: “I’d love to be involved in the World Cup! I’ve made around half-a-dozen appearances for Scotland since 2014 and I’ve enjoyed every single minute.

“Playing in the World Cup would be a dream fulfilled, but my first goal is to perform to the best of my ability for Hunslet, and hopefully with that make an impression on the selectors.”

Outside-back Ashton is eligible to play for Scotland through his father and recently filed relevant paperwork with Scotland RL. Ashton has played for Scotland RU Under-19s previously.

Ashton said: “My immediate priority is to impress for Hunslet as we bid for promotion and, if I do that, also catch the eye of the Scottish selectors.

“Hopefully they’ll be monitoring Hunslet’s games in any case, assessing how Joe’s progressing, and I can produce performances that will confirm my credentials.”

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