Englishman the key to NRL club’s chances of glory says Australian media
CANBERRA, AUSTRALIA - MARCH 14:Josh Hodgson of the Raiders passes the ball during the round 1 NRL match between the Canberra Raiders and Wests Tigers at GIO Stadium on March 14, 2021 in Canberra, Australia. Photo by Speed Media/Icon Sportswire RUGBY: MAR 14 NRL Rd1 - Raiders v Tigers Icon210314052
There is often a debate about how English players do in the NRL.
Recently, ZeroTackle tore into the English outside backs who have gone to the NRL, such as ex-Leeds Rhinos trio Ryan Hall, Zak Hardaker and Kallum Watkins and former Wigan Warriors stars Sam Tomkins and Joe Burgess, whilst forwards are often praised.
John Bateman is being chased by the Wests Tigers at present whilst Warrington Wolves halfback George Williams is also being tipped for an NRL return.
However, there are plenty of English stars already in the NRL but even they perhaps don’t get the respect they deserve.
Only one English player was named in the NRL’s top 50 in the shape of Victor Radley at 36th place.
However, according to Australian journalists and namely David Riccio of the Daily Telegraph speaking on SEN Radio, there is one Englishman who could lead an NRL club to glory in 2023.
That is former Hull KR hooker Josh Hodgson who joins last season’s beaten Grand Finalists the Parramatta Eels in 2023 and according to Riccio if he is a success then so will be Eels.
“I spoke to Brad about Josh and he’s moved within five minutes of the Eels’ training facility,” Riccio said.
“He was banging down the door to start training. He came a couple of days earlier and has not missed a session.
“The impressive parts already within one week that Brad Arthur has noticed is his ability to bring his teammates together and be a leader of voice.
“He is the clear, dominating voice and player in the middle. If he fires, the Eels won’t miss a beat.”