‘I will pick him’: England coach backs Radley for Ashes
Joel Gould and Jasper Bruce |
Victor Radley’s hopes of playing for England in the upcoming Ashes series are still alive despite his involvement in an alleged drug scandal.
“If he’s fit and healthy, I’m going to pick him,” England coach Shaun Wane told AAP.
Radley received a 10-game suspension from Sydney Roosters, without pay, following media revelations he requested cocaine from ex-teammate Brandon Smith.
The 27-year-old was also issued a $30,000 fine, to be donated to St Vincent’s Hospital.
Smith appeared in Queensland’s Southport Magistrates Court on Thursday, days after text messages between the South Sydney hooker and Radley were leaked to the press.
AAP reported on Thursday how court documents showed Smith was accused of unlawfully supplying Radley with cocaine at Currimundi, on Queensland’s Sunshine Coast, on June 7.
Radley has not been charged with any offence. The Roosters released a statement on Thursday afternoon on the contrite player’s behalf.
“I want to sincerely apologise to the club, my teammates, our sponsors, members and fans for the negative spotlight I have brought on the Roosters,” Radley said.
“I accept the sanctions in full and will work hard to earn back the trust and respect of everyone who supports this great club.”
Wane told AAP that the Radley matter had been “dealt with” by the club and he would let due process take its course.
As far as England is concerned, Radley, who has played nine Tests as a starting lock, is available for selection ahead of the three-Test Ashes series that kick off on October 25 at Wembley.
“Rads is raring to go. He would love to come over here and play for England,” Wane said.
“He is proud of his heritage and an absolutely great asset to us.
“When he informed me years ago that he wanted to play for England, I was so happy that we got him on board.”
Radley’s father Nigel hails from Sheffield. The Roosters hardman is a classic England forward in many respects. Tough as teak, he can mix it in the middle or edge with the best of them and has the ball-playing craft to operate as an extra half.
“He acts like an Englishman. He is the most ‘English Aussie’ I have ever met,” Wane said.
“Everything is black and white and very straightforward. He’s a player I have been very glad I have been able to coach.”
Radley, a Clovelly Crocodiles junior, has won two titles with the Roosters for whom he has played 161 games.
He is signed until the end of 2027 but already there is reported interest from the London Broncos and St Helens should he part ways with the Tricolours.
St Helens coach Paul Wellens told reporters in England that “if a player of his quality wanted to come over to Super League, then we’d certainly like to be in the conversation.”
AAP
