BROWN: I’LL MAKE MOST OF CHANCE

England v France Perth, Sunday, 10am FROM GARETH WALKER in Perth

KEVIN BROWN intends to turn up the pressure on coach Wayne Bennett, when he gets his World Cup opportunity on Sunday.

Stand-off Brown is one of four players handed their first chance of the tournament, against France, alongside Scott Taylor, Mike McMeeken and Mark Percival. The 33-year-old has no issue with having to bide his time – but now wants to make the most of his start in Perth.

Brown said: “Obviously, it’s been frustrating wanting to play, but I understand we’ve got a fantastic squad and I had to wait for my chance.

“I expected it. We’ve got the current Man of Steel Luke Gale and the Dally M (the NRL’s player of the year) stand-off Gareth Widdop, so I knew I’d have to put some work in.

“Hopefully, I can take my chance and put some pressure on Wayne, when he picks the side for the quarter-finals.

“I can’t wait. It’s the pinnacle of my career playing for my country, and to play in a World Cup makes it extra-special.”

France are 33-1 outsiders with some bookmakers, but Brown has warned against complacency after the disappointing secondhalf display against Lebanon.

He added: “My last Test against France was tough in Avignon, and they’ll be passionate. We know a lot more about them than we do the Lebanese, and we want an improved performance, especially in the second half.”