Paper Talk: Denver Test to go ahead, Holbrook wants rule changes, agenda against Salford
There are a number of exclusive stories in the papers this morning.
RFL say Denver test will be played as planned
The Rugby Football League is adamant that England’s clash against New Zealand in June will go ahead. Reports in Australia over the weekend suggest NRL clubs and the Rugby League Players Association are reluctant to let their stars play in the United States. RFL sources have told League Express that concerns about insurance are unfounded. The RFL are confident that the mid-season Test will go ahead as planned, claim League Express.
Union skills will make me better League player, says Charnley
New Warrington recruit Josh Charnley says some skills he learned in rugby union will make him a better player in rugby league, report League Weekly. The ex-Sale Sharks man told the paper: “I wasn’t really confident under the high balls, catching overhead. But there was a guy at Sale called Jon Callard who used to be England’s kicking coach, and I’ve worked with him quite a bit. I think I’m more confident under a high ball and under pressure, so that might come into my game a bit more.”
Watson hints at agenda against Salford
Ian Watson hinted at an agenda against Salford following their defeat Widnes, report League Weekly. The Red Devils lost 24-16 to the Vikings on Thursday night. Derrell Olpherts was denied a try on his debut while Lama Tasi was sin-binned. Watson said: “With Salford, they like to look 15 times and then go against the referee. It’s frustrating and disappointing.”
Holbrook wants change in obstruction rule
St Helens coach Justin Holbrook has called for referees to use common sense when it comes to the obstruction rule, claim League Express. The Australian has been frustrated with match officials awarding penalties for minor infringements. He told League Express: “If the defender taken out doesn’t have a chance of getting involved in the play then it shouldn’t be obstruction.”
Tomkins glad to be back
Joel Tomkins was delighted to be back in Wigan’s first team on Friday night after a couple of weeks on the treatment table. The 31-year-old returned in Wigan’s 48-10 win over Huddersfield after picking up two injuries at the start of the month. He told the paper: “It was good to be out there and it was a pretty comfortable game to come back in after not running for a couple of weeks.”
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