
Newcastle Knights player Trent Hodkinson has held talks with Wayne Bennett about representing England in this year’s Four Nations tournament.
Hodkinson, who has made six appearances for New South Wales’ State of Origin team, qualifies for England through his father.
Should the 27-year-old decided to represent England, Bennett could play an all-NRL halfback pairing, with Halifax-born Gareth Widdop playing at stand-off for England in recent years.
Speaking to the Newcastle Herald, Hodgkinson said: “We’ll have to wait and see. I’ve spoken to Wayne and that’s all I’m going to say at the moment.”
Bennett recently held a meeting with 31 Super League players during a short trip to the country. Among the players invited were halfbacks Matty Smith, George Williams, Luke Gale, Kevin Brown and Marc Sneyd, who are all vying for a position in the team come August.
Hodkinson is the latest NRL player to be linked with England recently. It has been reported that Bennett has also contacted Josh and Brett Morris, who have both represented Australia in recent years. The pair are eligible through their grandfather.
“There’s been no chat between Wayne and us about that,” Brett Morris said. “We are eligible to play for England through our grandad and our mother lived in England until she was 13-years-old.
“I haven’t even thought about it, it’s something that’s completely left field. But you’ve always got to keep your options open.”