Jon Wilkin likens Super League stars to “delicate flowers”

England are on a journey to the 2025 Rugby League World Cup as they hope to end an over 50 year wait for the trophy.

The journey started recently with a clash against France with an experimental side which could form the backbone of the side we see in 2025.

Now though Jon Wilkin has likened these young players to delicate flowers who need to become nettles if England want success.

He said on Sky Sports’ Rugby League Verdict:

“There is lots of potential. I’m going to go weird. I am into gardening and the other day I pulled up a nettle and it amazed me that the roots that they have. Really strong roots.

“These players are delicate flowers. They need to have strong roots and become like the nettle with a sting.

“Although this was developmental we need to find out who is strong enough to survive and sport will do that.

“The hope for England going into 2025 is that enough players develop enough to make it to that and we’re not sure.

“Some we won’t hear from again in a few years and some will and that will be interesting to watch.”