It takes a special type of Super League player to make it Down Under.
Some have tried to do so and whilst the likes of Adrian Morley and James Graham have had major success, it’s often quite rare. However, there are six on this following list that could make it in the NRL.
Jake Wardle – Huddersfield Giants
Whilst brother Joe had a less-than successful spell in Australia, Jake certainly has the potential to right the wrongs of the Wardle family. Just 22 years of age, the centre has already made nearly 50 appearance for the Giants and is keeping veteran Leroy Cudjoe out of the side. With a skillset the envy of his rivals, Wardle will very likely have NRL suitors in the upcoming seasons.
Toby King – Warrington Wolves
After bursting onto the scene in 2014, Toby King has become an increasingly integral part of the Warrington side recently, taking over from Ryan Atkins in the centre. He’s made over 100 appearances so far for the Wolves at just 24, and, with the upcoming World Cup, the centre will certainly be in England boss Shaun Wane’s thoughts.
Morgan Knowles – St Helens
He’s been one of St Helens’ most consistent performers in recent seasons so it’s no surprise that Morgan Knowles makes this list. The uncompromising loose-forward will tackle anything on the field and with an impressive engine, the former Welsh international would definitely be the envy of numerous NRL sides.
Oliver Gildart – Wigan Warriors
Before his injuries in 2020, Oliver Gildart was widely regarded as one of the best centres in Super League. And, after bursting onto the England scene, the 24-year-old won the Grand Final in 2015 and 2018. Ever Mr. Consistency for the Warriors, Gildart’s running game would be enough to terrorise any NRL side – no wonder then that he has been snapped up by the Wests Tigers ahead of the 2022 season.
Daryl Clark – Warrington Wolves
The 2014 Man of Steel winner has been one of the form hookers in the competition since progressing through the Castleford academy. Despite taking a few seasons to settle in at Warrington after his move in 2015, Clark has been showing the form that first earned him an England call-up six years ago. With the ability to run amok around the ruck, the number nine would cause NRL sides all sorts of problems. Though linked with a move to the Gold Coast Titans for most of 2021, those rumours have since gone quiet, but he would still be a great asset to any side Down Under.
Tommy Makinson – St Helens
Arguably the greatest winger in Super League, Tommy Makinson can do it all. Whether it’s carrying the ball out of defence, flying to finish in the corner or his all-round defensive prowess, Makinson continues to impress with every passing season. He’s the type of winger that NRL sides would love to have and he would definitely thrive in that environment.
