England's Rugby League World Cup campaign has suffered a significant blow on the eve of the tournament, with Perth Bears-bound Morgan Smithies sidelined through injury and unable to participate in the competition.
The lock and second-row forward picked up the injury during a training session at camp, forcing the coaching staff to seek an immediate replacement. Leeds Rhinos veteran Kallum Watkins has been called up to fill the void left by Smithies' absence.
Watkins is expected to arrive in Perth ahead of the weekend, though he will not be involved in England's opening fixture against Tonga on Saturday. The 35-year-old brings considerable international experience to the squad, having featured in two of last year's three Ashes Tests against Australia.
Head coach Brian McDermott expressed his disappointment at losing Smithies at such a critical juncture.
It's really unfortunate what has happened to Morgan with an injury picked up in training. Morgan has been great since we entered camp. He's a real team player and his work ethic and toughness are qualities that we will certainly miss.
McDermott was equally positive about Watkins' arrival and his potential contribution to the tournament.
Kallum enjoyed a terrific season with Leeds this year and has been part of our England Performance Programme building into this World Cup. I look forward to welcoming him into camp as we step up our preparations.
Watkins began his distinguished career as a centre but has shifted to the forward pack during recent years. He previously played under McDermott at club level during the coach's initial stint as a player at Headingley, providing familiarity with the tactical system.
Should Watkins take the field during the tournament, it will mark his fourth Rugby League World Cup appearance. He previously represented England at home in 2013 and 2022, as well as in Australia in 2017 when the national side reached the final.
The injury to Smithies comes as England prepare for their opening match against Tonga on 17 October, with halfback Harry Smith backing the squad's winning mentality despite their underdog status under McDermott's new tactical approach.
