England faces a significant setback just before the Rugby League World Cup as Morgan Smithies, bound for the Perth Bears, has been ruled out due to an injury sustained during training.

In his stead, Kallum Watkins of Leeds Rhinos is set to travel to Australia, joining the squad as a lock and second-row forward. While Watkins, who participated in two of last year's three Ashes Tests against Australia, will arrive in Perth before the weekend, he is not expected to play in the opening match against Tonga this Saturday.

Head coach Brian McDermott expressed his disappointment regarding Smithies' injury, stating:

"It's really unfortunate what has happened to Morgan with an injury picked up in training. Morgan has been great since we entered camp. He's a real team player and his work ethic and toughness are qualities that we will certainly miss."

McDermott added his confidence in Watkins, noting his impressive season with Leeds and his involvement in the England Performance Programme leading up to the tournament.

At 35, Watkins has shifted from a centre to the pack in recent years and brings experience, having previously represented England in three Rugby League World Cups: at home in 2013 and 2022, and in 2017 when they reached the final.

As preparations intensify, the team must adapt to this latest hurdle while aiming for success in the tournament.