Exclusive: Hakim Miloudi tips his France side to “surprise a few” in the World Cup

Barrow Raiders are enjoying surprise success at the top of the Betfred Championship.

One of two unbeaten sides in the league, they’re just two points off the Championship summit and have a game in hand on leaders Featherstone.

They also have a Challenge Cup tie against Super League high flyers Huddersfield to look forward to.

At the heart of their success has been former Toronto man Hakim Miloudi. The centre has continuously shown his threat alongside wing partner Tee Ritson helping the newly promoted side shock many in the second tier.

After a strong start to the season, Miloudi has told Serious About Rugby League that he is hopeful he can continue his form, not only to impress domestically, but to remain in line for an appearance for France at the Rugby League World Cup at the end of the year.

The tournament was postponed by a year due to ongoing complication with the coronavirus pandemic but it looks all set to be played out this autumn.

The French side are in Group A and look to face tournament hosts England as well as Samoa and Greece, but a change in the format means only the top two progress from each group.

Though France are not as favoured as others in the group, Miloudi issued a warning that the French outfit should not be taken lightly in the tournament.

He said, “We have some really good players in the France squad. Whether they are from Catalans or Toulouse or even the French Elite league, we have some excellent players.

“I am hopeful to make the squad for the World Cup. I have been on the phone with the Head Coach Laurent Frayssinous and he is happy with the way I am going.

“He has warned me to keep working hard and keep playing like I am and to bring my top game for the England and Samoa fixtures.

“I think we can surprise a few in our group but overall, I will be happy to represent my country once again for the World Cup.”