Morgan Smithies ruled out of World Cup as England call up Kallum Watkins

Morgan Smithies has been ruled out of the Rugby League World Cup after suffering an injury in England training, with Kallum Watkins called up as his replacement.

The Leeds Rhinos forward will join Brian McDermott’s squad in Australia as England prepare to open their campaign against Tonga in Perth on Saturday.

NRL.com confirmed the change, which ends Perth Bears-bound Smithies’ involvement before England’s first match.

Kallum Watkins replaces Morgan Smithies

Watkins, 35, brings substantial international experience but is not expected to feature against Tonga, according to Sky Sports.

He played in two of England’s three Ashes Tests against Australia last year and previously worked under McDermott at Leeds.

An appearance in this tournament would take Watkins into his fourth World Cup, following the 2013 and 2022 competitions on home soil and England’s run to the 2017 final.

“It’s really unfortunate what has happened to Morgan with an injury picked up in training,” McDermott said.

The England head coach praised Smithies’ contribution in camp and highlighted Watkins’ Leeds form and involvement in the England Performance Programme ahead of his recall.

Saturday’s opener also brings a meeting between England captain George Williams and future Dolphins team-mate Isaiya Katoa, who will be on opposite sides before linking up at club level next season.

Our England World Cup fixtures and TV guide has the full schedule, UK kick-off times and qualification format.