Hull KR prop George King honoured to captain Ireland at World Cup

Hull KR prop George King says he feels honoured to be given the opportunity to captain Ireland at the World Cup later this year.

The 27-year-old forward has made almost 200 career appearances for Ireland, Warrington, Wakefield and Hull KR.

King has won 10 caps for Ireland since making his international debut in 2016. He will get the chance to lead his country in his second World Cup this autumn.

King said: “It’s a truly remarkable honour. I’m so thankful to Ged (Corcoran) and Joe (O’Callaghan) for picking me as captain of such a vastly experienced group of lads.

“I’ve been on this journey with Rugby League Ireland for a few years now and it means so much to me every time I pull the shirt on and represent my country and my proud family over in Ireland. It truly makes me feel so special being able to do it and I’ve learned off many past captains at Ireland and I can’t wait to get the ball rolling!

“I want to get out there amongst the lads. On and off the field I’ve learned a lot, not just from good captains here at Ireland but in club rugby I’ve learned a lot, and if I can just pass an ounce of what I’ve learned from them and hopefully see somebody else progress and become captain one day, I’m happy to do that.

“It is truly special and when these games come around it always brings a special memory. My family fly over to watch the games and they watch me over in Ireland. It’s really good.”

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George King proud to represent his Irish roots

King was born in England but qualifies to play for Ireland via family heritage, something which King is incredibly proud to represent.

He said: “I’ve got some Irish family over here and some of my closest friends are Irish. My family is from Wexford and Wicklow and my partner has family in Leenaun as well.”

Ireland have been drawn in a group alongside New Zealand, Lebanon and Jamaica at this year’s World Cup.

The Wolfhounds take on Jamaica at Headingley in their first game of the tournament on Sunday, October 16.

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