Reports: Blake Austin to start on the WING for Great Britain

Warrington stand-off Blake Austin has been drafted onto the wing for Great Britain’s Test match with New Zealand this weekend, according to several reports on social media.

Zak Hardaker has reportedly picked up a shoulder injury, the severity of which has not yet been confirmed, with top journalists including Julie Stott (Mirror), Dave Woods (BBC) and Matthew Turner (Warrington Guardian) reporting that the former Wests Tigers and Canberra Raiders man will replace him.

With Ryan Hall and Oliver Gildart already ruled out, Wayne Bennett has just two recognised outside backs at his disposal, with Jack Hughes already set to fill in at centre inside Jermaine McGillvary and Jake Connor occupying the number four jersey.

During his time in the NRL, Austin was often used as a utility, playing at fullback, in the centres and in the back row but was never utilised on the wing.

Bennett is yet to confirm his final 17 and does still have Lachlan Coote at his disposal, however it looks as if Austin is set to get the nod.