Roosters star Billy Smith has reportedly pledged his international allegiance to England, following the lead of club teammate Victor Radley and Titans star AJ Brimson.
Like Radley, Smith now rules himself out of contention for State of Origin due to the current eligibility system which means players who represent tier-one nations New Zealand and England can’t take part.
However, according to the SMH, that system will reportedly be reviewed before the 2026 World Cup — which could see a host of fresh faces playing for NSW and Queensland.
FOX LEAGUE, available on Kayo Sports, is the only place to watch every game of every round in the 2025 NRL Telstra Premiership, LIVE with no ad-breaks during play. New to Kayo? Get your first month for just $1. Limited-time offer >
WHAT’S GAMBLING REALLY COSTING YOU? Set a deposit limit. For Free and confidential support call 1800 858 858 or visit gamblinghelponline.org.au.
England coach Shaun Wane revealed Smith reached out to him regarding his decision, gunning for selection in this year’s Ashes series.
“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 has been one of the Roosters most consistent performers this season, but has previously been hampered by injuries.
The talented centre has endured three ACL ruptures, a shoulder injury, a fractured jaw and a Lisfranc blow in what has been a stalled career.
Warriors get two sent off in loss | 00:55
MORE NRL NEWS
‘CHANGED THE GAME’: Madge buoyed as Broncos’ new spine show life after crisis
‘MADE A MARK’: Walsh blitz leads stunning Broncos comeback in epic Brisbane derby
‘CAN’T BE CRITICAL’: Exiled star’s ‘honest’ verdict on Galvin saga after Dogs axing
However, the fact Smith has endured that and got through it to be a mainstay in Trent Robinson’s backline was a huge tick for Wane.
“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.”
Meanwhile, Samoa’s big push to draw talent to their squad claimed a huge scalp on Sunday, with Payne Haas confirming he will represent the nation of his heritage.
