Watkins called into England World Cup squad after Smithies withdrawal

Kallum Watkins has been added to England's Rugby League World Cup squad as a late replacement for Morgan Smithies after Smithies was forced to withdraw through injury, the change announced on 14 October 2026. The 35-year-old Leeds Rhinos second-row forward will take part in his fourth World Cup, having previously featured in 2013, 2017 and 2022.

Smithies, who plays at lock and second-row, was ruled out after picking up an injury in training. He is set to join Perth Bears for the 2027 NRL season. The loss of Smithies comes as a blow to England. Head coach Brian McDermott has worked with Watkins before, having coached him during a trophy-laden spell at Leeds.

Watkins has won 32 caps for England. He began his career as a centre before moving into the pack in recent years. Kallum Watkins famously broke clear in the 2017 final against Australia, which England lost 6-0, only to be denied by a last-ditch tackle.

"It's really unfortunate what has happened to Morgan with an injury picked up in training," said McDermott. "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. "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 is set to arrive in Perth before England's World Cup opener against Tonga on Saturday (10:05 BST) but will not play in that match. He will be available for England's other group matches against France and Papua New Guinea.