Smith hails Sydney stay

Wakefield prop Daniel Smith is grateful for the time he spent in Australia with the South Sydney Rabbitohs last year.

The 21-year-old was a regular in Souths’ U-20 team last season, and felt that it helped season him into a proper professional rugby player.

“It puts into perspective what you have to do to be a professional athlete,” he said.

“I’m doing that now, so I’m really thankful I’m full-time and doing something that I love doing.

“I’ve been rewarded with a three-year contract and I can’t wait to get back out on the field.”

Smith also believes that training and playing alongside some of Wakefield’s tough veteran props, like Nick Scruton and Richard Moore.

“They’ve really helped me, I’m watching what they do,” he said.

“Training with those guys is a really big thing for me. Now that I can play with them for another two or three years, it’s an honour.

“So hopefully we can kick on and keep doing well.”

Smith has also been galvanised by Trinity’s recent form, and feels that a top eight spot is an achievable target for next year now.

“We always striving to be a better team, and we’ve shown that in the last couple of weeks,” he added.

“We’ve got some good wins by beating Leeds and Wigan, so we know we can do it.

“If we can keep playing how we are now, we can be pushing for a top eight spot next year. I want to keep doing what I do, and keep improving.

“By the end of the contract I’ll be 23 years old, so still young.

“I’m just looking forward to the next three years.

“The club’s progressing now, so we’ll be looking to pay the fans back.”