McCormack praises Scotland captain Brough

Drew Darbyshire

Scotland head coach Steve McCormack says he has full faith that Danny Brough can continue to do a good job of captaining the side at the World Cup.

Huddersfield Giants star Brough played a key role in Scotland’s Four Nations campaign last year and held his nerve to kick a number of goals in their 18-18 draw with the then ranked number one side in the world in New Zealand.

Brough will captain the Bravehearts once again at the World Cup this autumn, with St Helens forward Luke Douglas and London Broncos’ Elliot Kear as vice-captains.

And McCormack holds Brough in high regard.

“It’s no surprise that Danny made himself available and he was an automatic choice for captain,” he told loverugbyleague.com.

“He’s had another really good season. I class Danny as a friend as well so he is a player that I trust and know well. He knows me well and the system and like myself, this is his third World Cup and the fact that it is on the other side of the world makes it even more special.

“2008 was a great World Cup for him and I think he’s always had it in the back of his mind that he wants to lead Scotland into Australia and New Zealand and I’m looking forward to working with him again this year.”

McCormack, who is also the Player Welfare Manager at Wigan Warriors, has been the Bravehearts boss since 2004 and has done a great job in making them a challenging nation.

And he revealed that he just can’t wait to get over to Australia with his squad for the World Cup.

“I’m very privileged to be in the position I am,” he added.

“I’m lucky to be where I am and I never take my role for granted and I’m delighted with the squad we’ve picked.

“All of the players have now had their medicals. I’ve spoken to every player individually and have been really impressed with their attitudes. As always, they are very proud to represent their families and their heritage and it’s just an exciting time and we are really looking forward to getting over there.”

Scotland play Tonga in their first game of the 2017 Rugby League World Cup on Sunday 29 October.