Irish preliminary squad

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Storm and NSW Origin prop Brett White heads a 40-man squad announced today to play for Ireland in the 2008 Rugby League World Cup.

White and the Wests Tigers’ Shannon McDonnell and Ryan Tandy are the only NRL players named in the squad, which is dominated by players from England’s engage Super League, including former Tigers Premiership-winning winger Pat Richards.

Ireland coach Andy Kelly said his squad, which will be reduced to 24 on October 8, also includes a substantial representation from Ireland’s Carnegie Elite League and two players from England’s Co-operative National League.

Ireland, playing in only their second World Cup tournament, have been drawn in Pool 3 with Samoa and Tonga for the 2008 event.

They will open their campaign against Tonga at Parramatta Stadium on October 27 and will play Samoa on November 5, also at Parramatta.

“We have listed 40 players, the majority of whom have played for Ireland in the European Nations competitions and World Cup Qualifying matches,” said Kelly.

“Players from the Elite League have progressed well during the last three years and this is illustrated by the number of home-produced players who are now meriting selection for Ireland.

“Also, second-row forward Tyrone McCarthy, from Warrington Wolves’ Academy, who was a member of the Irish squad for this year’s Student World Cup, is also selected.”

The surprise package in the Irish training squad is Warrington Wolves back Chris Bridge who has been out of action since April last year recovering from an ankle injury.

The 2008 RLWC begins on October 25 with England and Papua New Guinea clashing in Townsville and ends with the already sold-out Final at Suncorp Stadium on November 22.

2008 IRELAND Rugby League World Cup Squad

 
Coach: Andy Kelly