King keen for World Cup experience

Correspondent

Ireland forward George King can’t wait for next year and the chance to play in Papua New Guinea after the Wolfhounds booked their spot in the World Cup.

The Irish sealed their place in the 2017 tournament with a 70-16 win over Russia last week.

King, and his younger brother Toby, was one of seven Super League players who starred for Ireland.

The Warrington forward said he was “over the moon” to have qualified for the World Cup.

“It was such a good feeling,” he told Love Rugby League.

“We have worked hard in training to make sure we don’t fall short and we have gone and achieved our goals.”

Ireland will take on Papua New Guinea in Port Moresby, along with Wales in Perth and either Italy or Russia in Perth.

“The older lads are telling us all their experiences of playing in 2008 in Australia and how they really enjoyed it,” King said.

“And to top it off to be drawn to PNG where we will be playing there will be so exciting for the boys, as PNG’s passion for the sport is unreal being their national sport.

“I’m sure some of my family will try and make the trip and support where they can as well.”

Huddersfield-born and raised King qualifies for Ireland through heritage, with three of his four grandparents Irish.

The 21-year old said he is very proud to play for the Wolfhounds.

“I have so much passion to play for Ireland,” he said.

King has had a busy year, with Warrington reaching the Challenge Cup and Super League grand finals combined with international selection.

“It;s been a big year for the club in terms of reaching three major competitios and to be a part of that,” he admitted.

“It’s been a really good experience but now after the internationals it’s good to get a little time now to relax for a couple of weeks and then it’s all guns blazing into pre-season, ready for 2017.”