Watkins replaces injured Smithies in England squad

Kallum Watkins has been called up to England's Rugby League World Cup squad as a late replacement after Morgan Smithies was forced to withdraw through injury. The 35-year-old Leeds Rhinos second-row forward is set to take part in his fourth World Cup having previously featured in 2013, 2017 and 2022. The loss of lock and second-row forward Smithies, who is set to join Perth Bears for the 2027 NRL season, comes as a blow to England. However, in Watkins, head coach Brian McDermott has found a replacement he knows well having previously coached him during a trophy-laden spell at Leeds.