Shaun Wane says the England door is open for Sydney Roosters lock Victor Radley
Shaun Wane has revealed Sydney Roosters star Victor Radley has a chance to represent England at the Rugby League World Cup if he makes himself available.
Radley was born in Sydney but has yet to represent Australia. Injury and suspension has also prevented the 24-year-old from playing State of Origin for New South Wales. The latest setback being an ankle injury that has ruled him out of game one on 8th June.
It means the door could be open for England to swoop in and Wane admits it is an option.
The England coach is currently in Australia and took in the NRL Magic Round in Brisbane at the weekend. He also looks set to meet up with Radley and one or two other players while he is there.
Shaun Wane a big fan of Victor Radley
Radley is eligible to play for England as his father was born in Sheffield. The Roosters lock has always said he wants to represent Australia and the Blues. But Wane could offer him another option.
Panthers ace Isaah Yeo and South Sydney star Cameron Murray are ahead of him in the pecking order, and he may be tempted to switch allegiance.
He may not, but speaking to the Australian press Wane says he will offer him the chance. Of course there are no guarantees, but Wane would welcome the selection headache.
“I’m very proud to be English and I want my players to be proud,” Wane told AAP. “If there’s someone who has English heritage who is absolutely outstanding in their position then I’m open to selecting them as well.
“He (Radley) is a great player, there’s no doubt about that. I’ve got some really strong players in that position and if he wants to make himself available then it comes down to me making a judgement.”
Jackson Hastings also an option
The same applies to Wests Tigers halfback Jackson Hastings. Wane has been impressed with him since he returned down under following spells with Wigan and Salford.
“Jackson’s a good player and he’s doing some really impressive things for the Tigers,” Wane said. “He’s the same as everyone else, I’m open minded and if he’s playing well he’ll definitely be in the picture. The door is never closed but I always want England to be a first pick.”
It is also thought that Wane has caught up with England veterans Elliot Whitehead and Luke Thompson, who are with Canberra and Canterbury respectively.
Wane will have also spoken with Herbie Farnworth. The 22-year-old Lancastrian is flying for the Broncos and grabbed another try in the win over Newcastle on Thursday night.