Chris McQueen puts hand up for England ahead of World Cup

Huddersfield Giants back-rower Chris McQueen has put his hand up to represent England at this year’s World Cup. 

The 35-year-old has one won cap for England, dating back to 2017 during his time with the Gold Coast Titans. He was called into the team by then-head coach Wayne Bennett for the test against Samoa. It was the first time McQueen had accepted England after reportedly rejecting previous approaches to represent his heritage.

McQueen, who qualifies through his English father, has scored 14 tries so far this season – the most of any forward in the Super League competition.

Sydney Roosters forward Victor Radley recently committed his allegiance to England ahead of this year’s World Cup, turning his back on Australia and New South Wales.

The 2022 Lance Todd Trophy winner recently signed a new one-year extension with the Giants for the 2023 season. Speaking to the official Rugby League World Cup 2021 website, McQueen says he hasn’t ruled out the chance of playing under Shaun Wane at this year’s tournament.

Chris McQueen: ‘If the phone rings, I’m going to answer that call’

He said: “I’ll put my hand up. But I know that Shaun Wane isn’t particularly fond of his Australian-born players, which is completely understandable.

“There is obviously quite a lot of hype around (Radley) so if he is going to get the call-up then that proves there is some hope for the blokes with the Aussie accent. I’m available.

“At the moment my plan is to go back to Australia. I haven’t made it back in the last two years. But if the phone rings, I’m going to answer that call.

“I’m not planning to go until early October anyway.”

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