RL Today: Bevan French to join Newcastle Knights & Graham turns down England role

Josh McAllister
Bevan French Wigan Warriors SWpix

Photo: Ed Sykes/SWpix

Bevan French to join Newcastle Knights

Wigan’s Bevan French is expected to sign a two-year deal with Newcastle Knights ahead of the 2023 season. (Fox Sports)

The 26-year-old full-back or winger remains off-contract at the DW Stadium beyond the current campaign. He has scored 27 tries in Super League so far this year.

James Graham turns down England role

Former England captain James Graham will not be a part of Shaun Wane’s coaching staff for this year’s World Cup. (Examiner Live)

He told Rugby League Live: “I had a good conversation with Shaun Wane while he was over in Australia in mid-season and we spoke about the possibility of me joining the England camp for the World Cup. But I gave it some thought and I realised that I’m probably not the right man for the job because I’m not experienced enough.”

Prime Minister’s XIII returns

Australia’s Prime Minister’s XIII is set to return later this year in a test against Papua New Guinea in Brisbane. (Sydney Morning Herald)

Daly Cherry-Evans, Matt Burton, Ben Hunt and Jake Trbojevic are amongst some of the star names set to represent the side at Suncorp Stadium next month. Their last fixture came at the end of 2019 in Fiji. 

Samoa star out of World Cup

Josh Schuster has ruled himself out of representing Samoa at this year’s tournament in England.

The Manly Sea Eagles utility made his debut for Samoa in the mid-season test against Cook Islands earlier this year.

However, he has decided to focus on a full pre-season for his 2023 campaign in the NRL, according to 9 News journalist Danny Weidler.

Suaalii backed for Australia

Sydney Roosters head coach Trent Robinson has backed his youngster Joseph Suaalii to represent Australia at this year’s World Cup. (The West Australian)

The 19-year-old made his debut in 2021 and has racked up 15 tries in 22 appearances in total for the Roosters.

Miller on the move

The picture says it all…

Birthdays

England international and Castleford full-back Niall Evalds turns 29 today (August 26).

Also celebrating; USA international and former Toronto utility Ryan Burroughs (31) & current Hunslet back-rower Josh Jordan-Roberts (24).

Trivia

Both Salford and Castleford have 26 points on the Super League table and face each other next week in the race to the play-offs.

NEW PODCASTLee Briers on NRL ambition, Wigan honour & Super League restructure