Five Aus-based players in Scots’ WC squad
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Five Australian-based players have been named in Scotland’s squad for the World Cup in England, starting next month.
Forward Euan Aitken, who is joining new NRL side the Dolphins next season after leaving New Zealand Warriors, is among the headline names.
Luke Bain of Parramatta, Brisbane’s Logan Bayliss-Brow and Bailey Hayward from Canterbury have also been included in coach Nathan Graham’s 24-man group for the tournament in October and November.
Kyle Schneider, of semi-professional side Mackay Cutters, completes the contingent.
Aitken is the only one of those five to have been capped previously.
Experienced hands in the squad include Salford’s Ryan Brierley, Kane Linnett of Hull KR, Toulouse back Matty Russell and St Helens forward James Bell.
As expected Hull KR’s former St Helens fullback Lachlan Coote is not included due to injury.
Danny Addy, Callum McLelland and Canterbury Bulldogs’ Aaron Schoupp are other enforced absentees.
Edinburgh Eagles captain Lewis Clarke has also been called up.
Scotland open their World Cup campaign against Italy in Newcastle on October 16. They also face Australia, the reigning champions, and Fiji in Group B.
PA
