Harry Smith reckons that when it comes to learning about halfback play, he couldn’t be at a better club than Wigan.
The highly-rated 21-year-old England Knights international is fresh from signing a new contract that runs until the end of 2024.
Smith is eager to add to the 23 appearances he already has to his name, including each of Wigan’s five wins from five this season.
And the news that Jackson Hastings is heading back to the NRL with Wests Tigers next year could signal even more regular involvement.
He’s been encouraged by words from coach Adrian Lam, himself a former Sydney Roosters, Wigan, Queensland and Papua New Guinea halfback.
Smith took the starting place of injured captain Thomas Leuluai against Castleford on Thursday, having learned plenty from both the New Zealand international and Australian ace Hastings.
“It’s a great place to be,” said the former Academy skipper Smith, who made his first-team debut in September 2019, six weeks before playing stand-off for England Knights in their 38-6 win over Jamaica at Headingley.
“The coach has been brilliant, not just in terms of passing on his own expert knowledge as a halfback but on supporting me as I’ve become involved with the first team on a more regular basis.
“Tommy Leuluai is not only a great skipper, but a big help to me personally, and Jackson is always there to pass on tips and advice.”
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