Higgins excited at chance to lead Serbia in Cup bid

Doncaster-born Darren Higgins has been appointed as the Serbians’ head coach and will take time out from his role of talent development manager at Castleford to prepare them for October’s final European qualifying matches against Wales and Italy.

“I’ll be stepping into the unknown a little bit, but it’s very exciting,” said Higgins.

“I’ve booked time off work so everything is in place.

“I’m going over for a few weekends in August and September to spend time with the national squad. There’s a fair bit of travelling, but I’m really looking forward to it.”

Higgins, who has closely monitored attempts over the last decade to establish rugby league in the country, is passionate about his new hands-on role, especially as it provides a link to his Serbia-born grandfather Simo Tijanic.

“That’s part of the reason I’m doing it,” he said. “I’m really proud to be given the opportunity.

“Ten years ago, while I was working for the RFL in South Yorkshire, I tried to get something going in terms of tour exchanges, but it never got off the ground.”

Higgins, a former head of youth at Sheffield Eagles and London Broncos, spent nine days in Belgrade last month, overseeing matches against the touring Yorkshire Lionhearts, and admits the Serbians have much to do if they are to become a force on the international stage.

“It’s all run by volunteers,” he said. “There are six clubs in the top division and they’re making good progress with juniors.”

Wigan captain Sean O’Loughlin will miss Friday’s trip to Leeds Rhinos after being given a one-match ban for the reckless high tackle that saw him sent off against Wakefield.