Ellery Hanley on Super League clubs withdrawing players ahead of international clash with England

Ellery Hanley named his Combined Nations All Stars squad this afternoon and there were a few big omissions.

Wigan Warriors’ Jai Field and Bevan French were withdrawn whilst Huddersfield Giants’ Tui Lolohea, Chris McQueen and Theo Fages were also absent.

And, Hanley has revealed just how difficult it has been to get a squad available for Saturday’s clash against England.

“It has been extremely challenging because our game is an occupational hazard of car crashes every six seconds so it’s been difficult from that point of view,” Hanley said.

“Coming into the last round that was extremely difficult because you were worried about injuries and suspensions and trying to pull players in at thelast minute and the difficult point about it players had already booked to go away with it being a free weekend.

“I didn’t think it would be as hard as this.

“The logistics of pulling players in last minute has been so difficult because the players have arranged things.

“We’ve just had that hump to get over but all the boys are excited to test themselves against the best England players.”

Hanley refused to speculate whether or not there was club intervention in some of the withdrawals.

“One thing I can’t do is speculate on others or start to think on their thoughts on whether they wanted to play for the club.

“I honestly couldn’t speak on that behalf, I’m just happy with the squad that I have got.”