Powell not thinking about World Cup

Former Wales rugby union star Andy Powell admits there’s a long way to go before he can think about becoming a dual-code international.

Powell, 31, switched to rugby league with Wigan in May, following the completion of the union season, and is set to line-up for South Wales Scorpions on dual-registration this Sunday against London Skolars.

The game will take place at The Gnoll, Neath, which will host Wales‘ game against Cook Islands in the World Cup on November 10.

Powell said: “Iestyn Harris and I have talked about the Wales side for the World Cup but that’s a few months away yet,” he said. “For me it’s about keeping playing and remaining injury free and then I can be asking the question at the end of the season whether I’m good enough.

“I’m not playing for Wigan at the moment so it’s vital that I come down to play for the Scorpions.

“Rugby League is tough. It’s a totally different game and it’s been challenging. I’m really enjoying it.

“In union you can hide away and go on the wing for five minutes. But you can’t do that in League. The fitness levels are also totally different to what I was used to in rugby union and I considered myself a fit player in that sport.”

Scorpions coach Dave Clark believes that Powell could be a contender for the World Cup if he continues to improve.

“He’s going in the right direction with his knowledge of the game and how he’s improving each week,” Clark said. “As a middle unit player he’s got that mentality of catch the ball and run hard. Whatever comes in front of him defensively he wants to smash and he already has that mentality.

“I’m sure Iestyn’s quite keen for him to be in the squad and we’ll see what happens from there. He’s getting the advice and help from the best side in the country so he’s got all the resources to improve each week and get ready for the World Cup.”