ENGLAND IN CROSS CODE BID FOR TE’O

ENGLAND are ready to fast-track another rugby league convert into their squad this summer after being advised Ben Te’o can make a bigger impact in union than his former teammate in Australia, Sam Burgess. The 29-year-old is joining Worcester from Irish province Leinster this summer in a bid to further his ambition to represent England at Test level. It is understood that Te’o, who was born in New Zealand and played for Fiji and Queensland in the 13-man code, has been in regular contact with England coach Eddie Jones expressing his determination to earn a prompt call-up. Trusted contacts in league have told Jones’ coaching staff that Te’o has the potential to be an explosive asset in midfield, as a player with a similar gainline-busting, off-loading repertoire to Manu Tuilagi and Burgess, who he played alongside when the South Sydney Rabbitohs won the NRL title in 2014. Teo’s mother was born and raised in England, which means he does not have to qualify on residency. ‘He is an amazing athlete, very aggressive and focused on his role,’ said Burgess, who returned to the Rabbitohs late last year. ‘He is hard-working and selfless.’ It was announced in December that Te’o would join Worcester at the end of the season. Prior to his plans being revealed, he said: ‘I know I’ve got a lot of options. I’d love to play international rugby. I’m not sure for who, but I’d love to play it. I want to test myself and I love to play in the biggest games, so that’s something that will factor into my decision.’ In fact, he has had his sights on an England place since deciding to cross codes. In theory, he could have also represented New Zealand, Samoa or Ireland — from November. Meanwhile, England prop Joe Marler will face a misconduct hearing in London next Tuesday after World Rugby intervened in the controversy surrounding the ‘gypsy boy’ comments aimed at Welsh international rival, Samson Lee.