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Another Roosters big name switches to England ahead of Ashes clash


Another Roosters big name switches to England ahead of Ashes clash

Billy Smith has reportedly committed his international future to England, joining teammate Victor Radley and Gold Coast Titans star AJ Brimson in aligning with the nation under the current eligibility system.

The decision rules the Sydney Roosters centre out of State of Origin selection, as players representing tier-one nations such as England or New Zealand are currently ineligible for Origin.

However, that stance could soon shift, with the Sydney Morning Herald reporting the system will be reviewed ahead of the 2026 Rugby League World Cup -- potentially allowing players to represent both a tier-one nation and their state.

England coach Shaun Wane confirmed Smith had reached out to him to declare his interest in pulling on the white jersey, with the 24-year-old targeting selection for this year's Ashes series.

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"Billy Smith contacted me, and I do like it when players contact me to express their desire to represent England," Wane said

"I'm very grateful for that and, like Victor Radley, it's a sign that he wants to play for England. It goes a long way.

"I do rate him. I'm a big fan of the NRL and all of the quality athletes playing in it. Billy Smith is one of the best athletes, he's a great centre and he would be a great asset.

"I like that he has contacted me, that means a lot and I will be pursuing it."

Smith's path to international recognition has been anything but smooth. Since his debut, he has endured three ACL ruptures, a fractured jaw, a Lisfranc injury and a serious shoulder blow.

But his resilience and standout form this season, cementing a regular spot in Trent Robinson's backline, has caught Wane's eye.

"That shows character, which is what I like," Wane said.

"I'm also a big fan of Victor Radley. He's as close to English as they come in terms of his mannerisms and the way he thinks, his personality.

"I'd imagine Billy Smith would be the same sort of character."

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