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The 2017 Rugby League World Cup is fast approaching, with games being held in Australia, New Zealand and Papua New Guinea at the end of next season. And call me crazy, but I’m predicting England will pull off a miracle and win their first World Cup since 1972.
These are the reasons why England can go all the way in 2017.
1. The 2008 World Cup
The last time a World Cup was held in Australia, the Aussies didn’t win. Of course, they made up for it in 2013, and the reigning champions will head into the tournament as favourites, but the last time they played a World Cup game on home soil, they lost.
Perhaps the demons will float back, and the Poms can get one up on them.
2. The Kiwis’ condition
Despite losing in the final in the 2013 World Cup, New Zealand will likely head into this one as the best ranked team.
But if the World Cup was this year, they would be in some trouble.
Superstars Roger Tuivasa-Sheck and Kieran Foran are unavailable, and other unsung heroes like Dean Whare and Peta Hiku would also be unlikely to play.
They may be world number ones, but they will have slim pickings if they’re as unlucky next year as they were this year.
3. The current English talent pool
There’s no shortage of talent being produced by the Brits, with James Graham, the Burgess brothers and Josh Hodgson all household names in the NRL.
Then you’ve got the guys in the Super League. Hull FC halfback Marc Sneyd had a stellar season, Sam Tomkins seems to have found his form again back home in England, and national team regulars like Ryan Hall, Ben Westwood and Sean O’Loughlin are all in good form.
4. Englishmen getting NRL experience in 2016
Elliot Whitehead is a much-improved player since joining Canberra this season, developing into a crucial attacking weapon.
Zak Hardaker has progressed nicely, and should tear up next season with a full Panthers pre-season under his belt.
Joe Burgess goes back to England next season as an improved winger, who showed us what he can do in short stints with the Rabbitohs and Roosters.
English rugby league is flourishing, and it is growing along with the talent of English rugby league players.
If not next World Cup then maybe the one after that, but mark my words they are very, very close.
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