Victor Radley wants to play for England at the World Cup

Sydney Roosters forward Victor Radley says he wants to represent his English heritage at the World Cup this autumn.

The 24-year-old back-rower was born and raised in Australia but qualifies to play for England through his father Nigel, who is from Sheffield and a Wednesday fan.

Radley, who is a former Junior Kangaroo, has told England coach Shaun Wane of his desire to represent his English roots at this autumn’s World Cup.

He said: “It’s something I’ve always wanted to do. I’ve always wanted to play for England for my old man. Everybody wants to do the right thing by their dad, don’t they?

“Dad’s proud of where he’s from, proud of his family, proud of supporting Sheffield Wednesday.

“This was a gut feeling that it’s what I want to do. And with the World Cup coming up in England at the end of this year, it was now or never.

“If I ended up sitting there watching the World Cup and knowing I could have been playing for England – that wouldn’t have felt good.”

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Shaun Wane brings Victor Radley in as part of England squad

Radley would not be able to play for Australia or New South Wales as soon as he plays a game for England due to them being a tier one nation.

Wane has brought Radley into his squad as they ramp up preparations for the World Cup on home soil.

Wane said: “I’ve always said that I’m open to selecting players who want to represent their English heritage. But they have to be outstanding in their position, and 100% committed.

“I rate Victor Radley very highly as a player. He’s a great addition to the options we have in a position where we have some really strong contenders. We need quality in depth in every position and Victor is a big addition to that.

“He now joins the group we already have playing in the NRL who will be part of our preparations for the World Cup.

“We’re in regular touch, sharing a lot of information with them, to make sure they’re all ready to be part of our squad if they’re selected.”

England will play at Sheffield United’s Bramall Lane when they take on Greece on October 29.

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