Stefan Ratchford hoping for more England chances under coach Shaun Wane

Correspondent

Warrington star Stefan Ratchford hopes his versatility can help keep his spot in the England team for this autumn’s test match against France in Perpignan.

Shaun Wane will take charge of his second game as England coach on October when they travel to France for a one-off test match that was arranged following the postponement of the World Cup.

Ratchford was at stand-off for the mid-season international against the Combined Nations All Stars in the absence of St Helens’ Jonny Lomax and is hoping his versatility will count in his favour when Wane comes around to selecting his squad.

“I’ve always said to be involved in an England camp or training session is always a huge privilege,” said Ratchford, speaking at Hindley ARFLC as part of “Pride in the Community”, an initiative launched by woodcare brand Ronseal to give back to grassroots rugby league communities.

“Any opportunity to pull on the jersey and sing the national anthem, you are going to be chomping at the bit.

“It’s always nice to be involved but, when you look around Super League and see what quality players are available, you can never take anything for granted. Being involved in the last one might give me a chance.

“I’m happy to do whatever best suits the team and being able to play pretty much every position is a benefit. I am sure if Shaun sees that as a bit of an asset, it might increase my chances of being in the 17.

“It was really good working under Waney. You hear these stories about him but you don’t quite know what’s going to happen until you train with him.

“But, from minute one, you could see the passion he has and why he has been so successful at club level. His passion is just so infectious.

“When he speaks you listen and it makes you want to play for him and play for your country. Hopefully I get a few more chances to play under him.”

In the other northern hemisphere internationals taking place this autumn, Jamaica take on the England Knights at Castleford (October 15) and Jamaica face Scotland at Featherstone (October 24) as preparations begin for next year’s World Cup.

International England

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