There’s yet another new academy talent coming through the ranks at St Helens and his name is Jack Campbell, a name that you will surely hear lots in the years to come.
The 18-year-old made his St Helens debut last night in the club’s impressive 34-18 win over Catalans Dragons and whilst plenty of players came in for praise, Campebll deservedly picked up the Man of the Match medal.
Two tries will generally do that for you but it wasn’t just in attack that Campbell shone but also defence. His try-saving tackle on Guillermo Aispuro-Bichet just seconds from half time ensured that St Helens only went into the break trailing by six points.
He’d make another such tackle just before the hour mark with Saints scoring on the resulting set, thanks to another Campbell finish in the corner.
As debuts go, you won’t find may better and Campbell seemingly agreed as he spoke post-match to Sky Sports.
“It’s just unbelievable. I can’t believe it, to be honest,” he said.
“We went out there second half and just completely dominated it. That’s just what we wanted to do to bounce back from last week.”
Jack Campbell talks ‘unbelievable’ St Helens debut
Saints desperately needed a response after last week and whilst he didn’t play last week, as a local lad, Campbell was keen to put things right.
The former Halton Farnworth Hornets youngster only learned of his debut at 11:30 am on Friday morning, revealing: “I got the call from Rowls and thought it was mad, I couldn’t believe it to be honest.
“It was the most unexpected call that I’ve ever had to be honest but buzzing.”
Making his performance even more impressive is that he’s a full-back by trade, admitting: “I’ve not played on the wing for God knows how long, but I enjoyed it tonight. I loved every minute of it.”
The teenager hails from a rugby league family with both his Dad and Grandad playing and reffing and it’s fair to say he’s done them proud
“All they wanted for me was to play Super League forever so I’m glad I finally did it for them,” Campbell said.
“My Dad and Grandad both reffed and both played, we just love rugby league.”
Back to winning ways for @Saints1890 😇#SuperLeague pic.twitter.com/X2tVaii8me
— Betfred Super League (@SuperLeague) July 17, 2026
