Lowes highlights Bradford’s contribution to England

Bradford Bulls coach James Lowes has hailed the contribution made to England‘s Test series win over New Zealand by players who began their careers at the club.

Lowes was assistant to England coach Steve McNamara during the series, and he was pleased to see players with Bulls connections contributing to the hosts’ victory.

“The future is looking bright and it was nice to see former Bradford players excelling on the international stage,” Lowes told the Bradford Telegraph and Argus.

“John Bateman, Elliott Whitehead and Tom Burgess all did very well during the series and even though they aren’t with us any more, they came through the academy here.

“Of course George and Sam Burgess were nurtured here too and they will be back in the reckoning again next year for England as well. We need to get back to producing these kind of players at Bradford and that’s what we’re trying to do.”

Lowes also believes that McNamara deserves a new contract to be England coach, with his deal having expired at the conclusion of the Test series.

“Why would you chose to get rid of someone who has just been successful and achieved a series win?” he said.

“Why change that? Hopefully Steve will get the nod to continue and if that opportunity arises to work with him next year, of course I would love to be involved again.