Hardaker quits World Cup for personal reasons

Leeds Rhinos star Zak Hardaker has left England’s World Cup squad midway through the tournament.

By The Newsroom

Published 4th Nov 2013, 17:15 BST

Zak Hardaker has left the England squad midway through their 2013 World Cup campaign

The 22-year-old was absent from the Emgland squad as they defeated Ireland in Huddersfield on Saturday.

A brief statement from England Rugby League released on Monday afternoon read: “Due to personal issues, Zak Hardaker is unable to commit to the England Rugby League programme and has informed the England RL Management Team that he wishes to withdraw from the squad and will not play any further part in Rugby League World Cup 2013.

“No replacement has been called up.

“England Rugby League will work with Zak’s club, Leeds Rhinos, to support him during this period.

“Zak requests that the media respects his privacy at this time.

“The matter is now closed.”

For more on this story read Tuesday’s Yorkshire Post.