Burgess excited by Kiwi forward challenge
Tom Burgess says he is ready to meet the challenge from New Zealand’s monster pack, who he rates as some of the best forwards in the world.
South Sydney prop Tom is the only Burgess brother named in the current England squad, with twin George injured, brother Sam playing rugby union and oldest brother Luke overlooked.
The Rabbitohs front-rower will come up against the likes of Melbourne Storm trio Jesse Bromwich, Kevin Proctor and Tohu Harris, Brisbane Broncos pair Adam Blair and Alex Glenn, as well as Warriors prop Ben Matulino and Tigers enforcer Marty Taupau in the three Test series.
Burgess told Love Rugby League he is keen to come up against them all.
“They’re all key players I think,” he said.
“A lot of their forwards are rated as some of the best in the NRL at the moment, so everyone.
“I’m flying the Burgess flag on my own this time but I’m happy to do that.
“I’ve certainly got some good players around me with James Graham, Chris Hill and Mike Cooper.
“There’s some quality players there and we’ll be looking to take that challenge.”
Burgess has had three seasons in the NRL with Souths after breaking into Super League with Bradford in 2011.
The 23-year old played all three matches for England in the Four Nations last year.
Burgess is one of a number of talented English props currently playing in the NRL along with Graham and Cooper.
The national team is blessed with quality front-rowers with the likes of Alex Walmsley, Adam Cuthbertson, Kyle Amor, Andy Lynch, Liam Watts and Hill running around in Super League.
Burgess believes more English forwards could find success in the NRL if they took the chance.
“If they just train hard, with raw talent, if you train them hard and work on everything,” he said.
“Fitness, but the defence is also key.
“That’s one thing that focus on a lot in Australia is defence.
“I think most English lads if they came over to Australia they wouldn’t have a problem fitting in and doing well and excelling.”
Follow John Davidson on Twitter @johnnyddavidson
