RLWC News: Sponsor apologises after Dom Young 'not as English' video, DCE disappointed at captaincy snub, Samoa strip at civic reception

One of the leading sponsors of the England team has apologised after a promotional video featuring England coach Shaun Wane appeared to agree with a racist assertion made by the host.

Wane was in discussion with veteran broadcaster Eddie Hemmings on a video produced by Betfred, the England team’s main gambling partner, and agreed with a comment from the host that Dom Young, the Newcastle Knights winger of Jamaican heritage, was not as English as Brisbane Broncos centre Herbie Farnworth, who is white.

“Dom Young, he could have played for Jamaica, as his brother is, so he’s not English in the strict sense of the word either,” said Hemmings.

“No, not,” said Wane. “He lives in Wakefield, his mum and dad live over there, and when I spoke to him, he was hellbent on ramming down my throat the importance of England, wanting to play for England and want to win something with England.

“So that convinced me. I looked at his form playing for Newcastle and he’s been outstanding.”

Hemmings then went on to add: “Herbie Farnworth, he plays in the NRL, I’ve just listened to him and he’s as English as you or I, there’s no problems with him” which Wane did not actively agree with, but also did not contradict.

England have many other players of different heritage, including those who have played for other nations – Micky McIlorum represented Ireland, Morgan Knowles played for Wales and Victor Radley is from Sydney – leading many to question online why Young, one of the few black players in the England team, was singled out as ‘not English’ by Hemmings.

After the video went viral, Betfred released a statement on their social media channels that read:

“This morning Betfred have apologised in person to both Shaun Wane and Dom Young with regard to a recent interview ahead of the Rugby League World Cup, of which a clip was re-edited and appeared on social media on Wednesday night.

“As a partner we would like to reaffirm our commitment to all staff and players in all of the England squads, and we are extremely proud to be involved in the most inclusive World Cup ever.”

Dom Young’s mother replied to the original tweet, writing: “Dom was born in Dewsbury to English parents (I’m actually more English than the royal family, went to school in Wakefield and has eligibility for Jamaica through his paternal grandparents!”

DCE reveals disappointment at captaincy snub

Daly Cherry-Evans has opened up on his disappointment at being overlooked for the Kangaroos captaincy in favour of Roosters fullback James Tedesco.

The Manly skipper would have been the front-runners to replace Boyd Cordner in the role, but with his position at halfback under threat from Nathan Cleary, coach Mal Meninga opted for a surefire starter in Tedesco.

“I would have loved to have been captain of Australia but it’s not the direction they wanted to head in, which is fine,” said DCE.
“It doesn’t change my role over there. I’m still going to be myself and help the captain and vice-captains if they ever need.

“It definitely doesn’t change my on-field role. When I’m playing halfback I’ll always make sure I’m doing that role really well. It hasn’t really changed anything.

“I would have loved the opportunity but it’s not to be. I’m still determined to go over there and play halfback for Australia. That will be the focus.”

Samoa strip at civic reception

Samoa have been given a heroes’ welcome in Doncaster, with the South Yorkshire city turning into a Pacific island to greet one of the tournament favourites.

Toa Samoa were given a Civic Reception in the town hall, with local children performing the Sipi Tao war dance lead by former Samoan dual code international Freddie Tuilagi.

The visiting players then joined in for some Samoan cultural performances, with Josh Aloiai leading the dancing with his shirt off.