England winger Tommy Makinson wants to see more international matches played, saying it is the pinnacle for any player to represent their country.
The international calendar remains unconfirmed as the governing body awaits the outcome of talks Down Under.
More than a month has now passed since the end of the 2021 World Cup; and the majority of participating nations still don’t know when their next game might be.
England only know they are going to be playing France in a mid-season friendly in Warrington. The European Championships will go ahead at the end of the year. However, it’s understood that the Knights will be the English representatives in it.
“You want to play loads of international game don’t you? That’s the pinnacle,” Makinson told Love Rugby League.
“For me, it’s the best. They are the games you want to be involved with, just like the big ones for St Helens.
“You’d rather know (the international calendar) but its not been ironed out yet. We’ll ask for some clarity there on – not just England, but the international board across it all – we need more international games.
“We know there are a bit too many Super League games but we could fill that void with international games”
“Imagine 24 or 26 Super League games and more international games, people would love it wouldn’t they? And more games like this – St Helens v Penrith – why can’t we do more of these every year? I know it’d be hard to fit but I’m sure somehow we can work it out and make the game a bit better.”
Makinson’s St Helens team-mate Konrad Hurrell revealed to Love Rugby League that Tonga are keen to play England in an end of season test series although nothing has yet been officially announced.
Tommy Makinson: Getting over the World Cup was tough
England fell short to Samoa in the semi-finals of the World Cup. Stephen Crichton kicked a drop goal in golden point extra time to send Samoa to their first-ever Rugby League World Cup final.
“It was tough,” Makinson reflected.
“On a personal level and team level, the first five weeks was amazing and we started off really well. Ultimately, we just didn’t perform in that last game. If you don’t perform against the best, then you get beat.
“I really thought that we should’ve been in a World Cup final playing against the Aussies. It took a bit to get over.
“A lot of the lads won’t get the chance to play in a World Cup on our home soil again so that hurt but you’ve got to get over it and move on.”
READ NEXT: It’s probably something you never get over: Morgan Knowles gives honest assessment on England’s World Cup campaign two months on
The article England star Tommy Makinson calls for more international rugby league appeared first on Loverugbyleague.com.
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