RL Today: Wane’s World Cup ambition, Castleford injury update & Keighley’s dad and lad

A wrap up of the latest news in rugby league.

What’s on site

England to face Combined Nations All Stars team in summer.

Paper Talk: RFL chairman wants focus on pitch, Jackson Hastings & Bevan French doubt for Round 1 & John Bateman eyes captaincy.

Brits Down Under: Wonderful George Williams, Herbie Farnworth shines for Brisbane & Josh Hodgson makes comeback.

John Bateman on: Wearing 13, loose forward role & being home.

Stevie Ward joins new Canadian domestic competition in off-field role.

What’s in the papers

Keighley’s Quentin Laulu-Togaga’e and son Phoenix complete rare playing feat, reports The Yorkshire Post.

Shaun Wane explains why only England World Cup win will do as he sets out grand ambition, reports Hull Live.

Mark Percival looks strong in his first game back from injury and has been backed to play for England in the World Cup by Saints coach Kristian Woolf, reports St Helens Star.

One injury concern for Castleford after Hull KR test – but Daryl Powell expects strong squad for Super League opener, reports Yorkshire Evening Post.

Joseph Suaalii given green light to play in NRL at age 17, reports The Guardian.

What’s on social

Former Warrington prop Leilani Latu will help coach Latchford Giants’ Under-15s.

Welcome Leilani Latuhttps://t.co/MN5OieEUiI pic.twitter.com/hjvMzurdlc

— Latchford Giants ARL (@LatchfordGiants) March 15, 2021

Phoenix Laulu-Togaga’e (aka PLT) has signed a professional deal with Keighley after playing alongside his dad Quentin on the weekend!

✍ SIGNING | It's about time we gave this story its happy ending.

After a successful trial period, Keighley Cougars are today delighted to announce the signing of Phoenix Laulu-Togaga’e on a one-year deal.

Read More ➡️ https://t.co/4AQqCqdhHT

📸 @JTSportsMedia1#JoinThePride pic.twitter.com/MPj63ruMcc

— Keighley Cougars (@Cougarmania) March 15, 2021

A dad and lad playing together in the same side is a rarity in professional sport – what a special moment this would have been.

🗣 ‘I think he’s the only person that I’d be happy with taking my place.’

🏉 @Cougarmania star Quentin Laulu-Togaga’e and son Phoenix discuss making history following appearance together in yesterday’s friendly against @OfficialBullsRL.

🎙 More on Monday’s @BBCWYS from 6pm. pic.twitter.com/iLnQiVxq2f

— BBC West Yorkshire Sport (@BBCWYS) March 14, 2021

What’s on TV/Radio

NRL 360 – Fox League (7:30am)

Games from the French Elite Championship are being streamed live every weekend.

The Final Hooter podcast: Newcastle Thunder’s ambitions, Eamon O’Carroll on coaching & Jack Cogger chats Huddersfield.

The Final Hooter podcast: Adrian Lam reflects, Steve Price’s 2021 hopes & Warrington duo pay tribute to Chris Hill.

Sky Sports’ Golden Point podcast is available to download now.

The latest Forty20 LIVE podcast is out now.

The latest 5 Live Rugby League Podcast is out now, hosted by Dave Woods.

Birthdays

Former Great Britain and Wales international Phil Ford turns 60 today.

Also celebrating; former Wigan favourite Brett Kenny (60), Toronto coach Brian McDermott (51), ex-New South Wales hooker Mick Ennis (37), Widnes centre Steve Tyrer (32), ex-London Broncos prop Erjon Dollapi (28), Penrith Panthers forward Scott Sorensen (28), Toulouse prop Maxime Puech (27) and Barrow half-back Ryan Johnston (23).

Trivia

England’s last international match came in November 2018, when they lost to New Zealand at Elland Road, Leeds.

Subscribe to The Final Hooter on Apple Podcasts and get involved with the free-to-play Fantasy Rugby League 2021.

Rugby League Nostalgia is here! Get involved with Love Rugby League’s new group on Facebook to share all your rugby league nostalgia and celebrate the rich heritage of our sport.