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Ashes Series (Cricket)

Morgan Smithies Ready to Make Ashes Debut for England

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

Morgan Smithies, the 24-year-old Halifax native, will make his Ashes debut for England this weekend after a disappointing 26-6 defeat at Wembley. Smithies, who has played 49 games in his two seasons in the NRL with Canberra Raiders, has been eager to return to the international stage and help the hosts put things right. He has been training hard and feels confident about his preparation, citing his experience playing against the Aussies in the NRL as a key factor in his readiness.

Key Takeaways:

  • Morgan Smithies will make his Ashes debut for England this weekend, hoping to help the hosts save the series.
  • Smithies has played 49 games in his two seasons with the Canberra Raiders in the NRL, where he gained valuable experience playing against the Aussies.
  • The 24-year-old Halifax native has been training hard and feels confident about his preparation, citing his experience in the NRL as a key factor.
  • Smithies has a strong belief in the England team's abilities, stating that they know what they're capable of inside the camp.
  • The hosts need a big turnout from the English fans to do them proud, and Smithies is sure they'll get it.
  • Smithies has spent the past two seasons in the NRL with Canberra, helping them claim their first minor premiership since 1990.
  • He has played alongside and against notable players, gaining valuable experience in the process.
  • Smithies is set to play in front of his family and friends at Everton's new stadium, a "dream come true" for the former Siddal junior.

Statistics:

  • Morgan Smithies has played 49 games in his two seasons with the Canberra Raiders in the NRL.
  • England has a disappointing 26-6 defeat at Wembley in the first Ashes Test since 2003.
  • The series is on the line for England, making this match a critical one for the hosts.
  • Smithies has been eager to return to the international stage and help England save the series.
  • The Canberra Raiders have not won a minor premiership since 1990 until Smithies helped them achieve it in 2020.

Sources:

  • [James O'Brien, "Morgan Smithies ready to make Ashes debut for England", SWPix.com]
  • [Mark Nolan/Getty Images, "Morgan Smithies, right, has spent the past two seasons in the NRL with Canberra"]

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