Wakefield Trinity head coach Daryl Powell had decent pedigree during his playing career, having featured in Ashes series against Australia for Great Britain in 1990, 1992 and 1994.
“It’s massive. For the players it’s such a pinnacle, playing against the Aussies. The Test series back in my time as a player, I’ll never forget,” he told BBC Radio Leeds.
“Even though we lost all three 2-1, we had some unbelievable times, getting so close to the Aussies.”
His nostalgia for those times aside, Powell said the planning for this year’s series is crucial to make it a success.
“I think it’s great for the sport. If we get it right then it will be amazing,” he added.
“Clearly the RFL have got to get a grip of the way the sport’s being run. It needs to be managed in such a way that gets full houses and then you get it right.
“Shaun Wane and the players have got to get it right on the field. If you’ve got full houses at a game against Australia and it’s competitive then I don’t think there’s a better sport in the world.”
Wigan boss Matt Peet believes that rugby league needs the international game to boost the sport and the Ashes is the perfect chance to achieve that.
“For the game to get where it deserves to be, the international scene has to be growing, thriving, flourishing and it needs to be what every player is aspiring to do, which is to represent their country,” he told BBC Radio Manchester.
“For that to happen, you need consistent games. You need a regular competition structure where you know what’s coming up. I think this a step in the right direction.
“Hopefully the quality of the games and the fan experience and product that’s on TV will be a positive step for rugby league and leave everyone wanting more.”
Read full article at source
exeter.one newsbite last confirmed 3 days ago by a BBC Reporter
