Smith hopeful good performance in GF could catch eye

Wigan Warriors scrum-half says he still is hopeful of getting the nod for Steve McNamara’s England squad which will be named this Sunday – and says a good performance in the Grand Final could increase his chances of getting in.

Smith played alongside Gareth Widdop at the heart of the national side last year, but with plenty of competition for the halves slots in 2015, there are no guarantees over selection this year.

And Smith says all he can do is look after his own performances to give himself the best chance of playing.

“It’s obviously something I really want to do,” he said. “I want to be in the squad, I want to play against the Kiwis and hopefully I get the nod off Steve Mac.

“All I can control is my performances on the pitch and, if I can perform well on Saturday and help my team win the Super League trophy, then I give myself a chance again.

“My main focus is obviously do well on Saturday first and whatever happens will happen.”

However, he admits he still thinks he’s got plenty to offer England.

“But there is no bigger honour than playing for your country,” he added. “I got a taste of it last year and I still think I have a lot to give to England. I think the organisation I can bring and the kicking game and all that kind of stuff plays a massive part in the international game.”