Exiles coach Brian McClennan has made his final three selections for his 22-man squad that will face England in the CarPlan International Origin Match at Headingley Carnegie on Friday June 10 (8.00pm).
Wakefield Trinity Wildcats forward Glenn Morrison is included alongside St Helens prop Josh Perry. McClennan, who arrived in the UK yesterday after flying in from Auckland, has also reinstated Huddersfield Giants forward David Fa’alogo after the Kiwi returned to action last weekend against Hull FC after a long layoff through injury.
“I am delighted to have finalised my squad and I’m looking forward to getting down to business,” said McClennan, “We have assembled a formidable squad of players and despite a few injury scares, I feel confident that we have the right blend of experience and quality to really make this a fabulous match against the best players currently playing in England.
“It will be very difficult to reduce the squad down to the final 18 and it will certainly give me and Terry (Matterson) a real dilemma when we work who will make the starting line up.”
New Zealander McClennan, who will return to Headingley Carnegie for the first time since he left Leeds Rhinos as coach at the end of last season, is urging fans to get behind the concept and to turn out for what promises to be one of the games of the season in the Rugby League calendar as the best Australians and New Zealanders playing in the Engage Super League go into battle against Steve McNamara’s England.
“I have said all along that the RFL should be applauded for their efforts in organising this game,” added McClennan.
“Now it is important that the fans turn up in their numbers. The players can’t wait to get at each other and to have Headingley Carnegie packed to the rafters will only add to the spectacle. This is a mouthwatering prospect and to be part of it will be a thrill.”
Pre-purchased tickets for the International Origin Match start from £19 for adults and £12 concessions and are available at www.rugbyleaguetickets.co.uk or by contacting the RFL Ticket Office on 0844 856 1113. Tickets purchased on the day of the match start from £22 for adults and £15 for concessions.
