Chance for Exiles to push their World Cup claims

Former Huddersfield Giants star Brett Hodgson is to captain the Exiles against England this summer.

The Australian full-back, now playing at Warrington Wolves, will be coached by countryman Daniel Anderson, returning to the UK for the first time since 2008 when he took St Helens to Challenge Cup and Super League glory.

The Exiles, a team drawn from the best overseas players plying their trade in Super League, will play a two-match series against Steve McNamara’s side.

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The first game is on Saturday, June 16 at Saints’ new stadium, Langtree Park, and the return is on Wednesday, July 4 at a stadium yet to be announced.

As well as Hodgson, there is a distinct Yorkshire feeling to the Exiles, with Hull FC director of rugby Shaun McRae, Wakefield Trinity Wildcats’ No 2 Glenn Morrison and former Bradford Bulls legend Robbie Hunter-Paul in a newly-formed Exiles management team.

“It is a great honour to be selected as the coach of the Exiles,” said Anderson. “I love the concept and I believe I have some fantastic players at my disposal to continue on from last year’s victory over England and, hopefully, win this year’s series.

Brett Hodgson will make a great leader for the group. He has bags of experience and was part of last year’s winning side. He is well respected by his peers and his knowledge and understanding of what makes a successful camp will benefit the players as we approach the opening game in June.”

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Anderson, who guided Parramatta and New Zealand Warriors to NRL Grand Final appearances, added: “We have a number of world-class players available to pick from.

“England will use the two-game series as part of their continued preparation for the Rugby League World Cup in 2013, which is vital to their on-going development. I see it as a way for those overseas players playing in Super League to have another crack at representative football.”