No surprise that King can reign for Ireland team
FROM a Hull KR perspective, it was no surprise to see prop forward George King appointed Ireland captain ahead of this year’s World Cup after seeing first-hand the qualities he brings on and off the field.
Since joining from Wakefield Trinity at the back end of 2020, King has quickly risen through the ranks in East Hull, becoming the main enforcer down the middle of the park and leading by example in each outing.
What impresses most about King is his willingness to die for the cause.
If Rovers are on the front foot or struggling for possession in bad ball, nothing changes in King’s game, he holds his hand up for carries and runs his blood to water whatever the situation.
It’s no secret that King is KR’S best prop forward, with his partner in crime Matty Storton also impressing this season.
However, when the pair are off the field, it’s clear to see that the Rovers’ pack is weaker, and the hope is that Willie Peters will bring in some comparable new faces to bolster the forwards in 2023, with rumoured signings Rhys Kennedy and James Batchelor fitting that bill.
King is a born leader, and his influential performances for his club have earned him the right to lead his country into battle at this year’s World Cup, and when speaking to the Mail earlier in the year, the Rovers man was chomping at the bit to get back into the Ireland set-up.
“I’m really looking forward to getting back into the national fold,” said King.
“There are over 50 players now from the NRL, Super League and lower leagues all ready to represent Ireland which is fantastic. Many Irish lads are biting the bullet and going full tilt to make us the most competitive side we can be.
“We are certainly not making up the numbers, and we want to shock the world.”