Two more NRL stars have pledged their allegiance to the Kangaroos ahead of the upcoming Ashes series, in what will be a big boost for coach Kevin Walters
In what is a blow to Shaun Wane and England, this week two of the NRL’s standout players have confirmed which nations they will be representing on the international stage. Coach Wane and England had hoped that it would be them they joined and played for, instead, they will be turning out against them.
The first of whom is Canberra Raiders halfback, Ethan Strange. The 21-year old has had a breakout year in the competition Down Under, and has played a key role in the Raiders’ table-topping campaign.
Strange’s mother was born and raised in England, making him eligible to represent England via heritage. His grandmother, however, is from New Zealand, whilst he himself grew up in Australia, which gave him the choice of three Tier One nations to choose from.
His decision to represent Australia came down to one key factor. Strange wants the ability to be able to play in the State of Origin series, after admitting that it had always been a dream to play for his state.
“All my family members want me to play for different teams,” he told The Canberra Times. “But, I’ve always wanted to play for New South Wales, so Australia”.
“[To be selected] That would be massive. Representing your country or your state is the top thing you can do, so that would be really cool.”
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The second player to declare their allegiance to Australia is Cronulla Sharks hooker, Blayke Brailey.
One of the most quick and dynamic hookers in the NRL, Brailey qualifies to play for England through his mother, who was born in Liverpool.
In August, Brailey admitted to Australian media that if a phone call from Wane came asking him to play for England, he would “take it with both hands“. However, he seems to have made a U-turn on that decision and whilst he could still be part of the Ashes tournament, it would be for the Green and Gold.
Whilst almost guaranteed a starting role should he have committed to England, the 27-year-old will be behind Melbourne Storm hooker, Harry Grant, in the Kangaroos’ pecking order, which could limit, or even end, his chances at game time in the series.
Regardless, speaking Down Under, Brailey said: “The Ashes is definitely something I want to be part of. Harry will probably be the No.9 for Australia, he’s done a great job for them for many years but I want to be part of that squad and part of that tour.
“That’s a big focus for me and I know that comes off the back of a good finals performance and winning finals games, so that’s my focus at the moment. If I do get the opportunity, I’ll be over the moon and extremely grateful.”
Aussie coach Walters will name his squad after the NRL Grand Final, which will be held on October 5, Wane will likely announce his side after that date, meaning there is still a slim chance Brailey could change his mind should he not be selected.
