Shaun Wane on Gareth Widdop’s England exclusion

Shaun Wane insists Gareth Widdop still has an England future, but has to improve his form.

The Warrington halfback was the most notable omission from Wane’s 31-man list of provisional Ashes candidates named earlier this week, having been a mainstay in the England side for the best part of a decade.

Widdop, a marquee signing for the Wolves in the off-season, struggled with injuries last season while he failed to impress, along with many others, on the disastrous Lions tour.

Injury again derailed the start of his time with Warrington, though he has now returned to the field.

Speaking on the season premiere of Rugby League Back Chat, which airs at 5 PM on FreeSports this evening, Wane admitted to liking Widdop, but says he needs to play to a higher standard.

“The door is open for Gareth,” Wane said.

“He’s a great player and did a great job for St George in the NRL. I like how he plays, but he would know his form isn’t hitting the right form at the minute and he needs to play better.”

Back Chat returns on FreeSports at 5 PM tonight. Check out the full show on Freeview 64, Sky 422 HD, Virgin 553 HD, Freesat 252, BT 64.