Leigh duo answer Ireland’s call for international duty this weekend

Leigh pair Ed Chamberlain and Keanan Brand have been called-up to the Ireland squad for a mid-season training camp ahead of this year’s World Cup. 

Ged Corcoran will hold his first training camp as Ireland head coach on Friday and Saturday this week.

The Wolhounds don’t have a mid-season international this year. Instead, they will have a couple of sessions together this weekend as part of their World Cup preparations.

Chamberlain, 26, has already won three caps for Ireland. He played in all three of Ireland’s group games at the last World Cup in 2017.

Chamberlain told Love Rugby League: “It was probably the best experience I’ve had for rugby. Getting to go over to the other side of the world to play against some of the best was a really good experience.

“I’ve been in contact with Ged for a couple of years. He was assistant coach for that World Cup tour and he has always kept in touch with me.

“He’s rang me up every year to play every year but unfortunately the last couple of years I’ve missed out on that through injury. He rang me to ask about the training camp. If selected, hopefully I can do my part for Ireland and help us reach the knockout stages.”

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Keanan Brand to make Ireland debut at World Cup

Former Widnes centre Brand, 23, was born and raised in England but qualifies to play for Ireland through his mother’s side of the family, who hail from Belfast.

Brand told Love Rugby League: “To play for Ireland would be amazing to represent my family, so I’m buzzing.

“My family are from Belfast. Ged gave me a call a few weeks ago. My nan and grandad will get to see me play for Ireland so they are buzzing.”

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