Rugby League World Cup 2026: Kallum Watkins replaces injured Morgan Smithies in England squad

Kallum Watkins, a 35-year-old Leeds Rhinos second-row forward, has been called up as a late replacement to England's Rugby League World Cup 2026 squad after Morgan Smithies was forced to withdraw through injury. Watkins will be participating in his fourth Rugby League World Cup, having previously featured in the 2013, 2017, and 2022 tournaments. Smithies, who plays lock and second-row forward, was ruled out due to injury.