AUSTRALIA coach Tim Sheens says he is relishing the prospect of a big atmosphere for his side’s matches at Rugby League World Cup 2013.
The Kangaroos face England at the Millennium Stadium on October 26, Fiji at Langtree Park on November 2 and Ireland at Thomond Park, Limerick, on November 9.
And there is also the prospect of a semi-final showdown in London as part of The Big Hit double-header at Wembley Stadium on November 23, which Sheens’ men are heavily tipped to reach.
“I thought we had good support when we played at Wembley a couple of years ago and I hope we can count on the Australian people living London again at RLWC2013,” said Sheens.
“I think there’ll be a good support for Australia, and for the game in general, and I hope we can build on the atmosphere we created at Wembley in 2011.
“The boys are really looking forward to getting back to Wembley and hopefully we’ll get a crowd down there.”
The Big Hit double-header of semi-finals was launched earlier this month with the help of former London Broncos star Martin Offiah and Mayor of London Boris Johnson.
Meanwhile, Australia’s clash with Fiji earlier in the tournament is likely to pit the Kangaroos players against former team-mate Petero Civoniceva for the the first time, following the legendary green and golds star’s decision to switch international allegiances to the nation of his birth.
“Fiji’s squad will largely be based around which players Australia and New Zealand pick and don’t pick, though Petero Civoniceva will lead them,” said Sheens.
“He’s come out of retirement and is playing at a high level in the Brisbane competition, and he’ll keep himself enough to lead his country with distinction.
“There are other big names who could be available for Fiji, again, depending on who is selected for Australia and New Zealand, and they could be an interesting prospect.”
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