Hock’s switch will not hinder us – McNamara

Wigan Warriors seem set to lose England second-row Gareth Hock to Parramatta Eels after the Sydney club confirmed they have opened talks for the 29-year-old.

Hock still has three years remaining on his deal so Wigan will be expecting a hefty fee for a player they stood by during a two-year drug ban.

But it means England could have six of their main squad playing in the NRL next year with little access to them during the build-up to the 2013 World Cup.

Gareth Ellis has returned to Super League with Hull FC but Sam Burgess, James Graham, Gareth Widdop and Jack Reed are all plying their trade Down Under along with South Sydney’s Luke Burgess, who hopes to make his England debut against France on Saturday.

They will not be allowed to return for the mid-season Exiles fixtures next year as they are not classed as internationals and McNamara admitted: “We may not see some until their Grand Final or semi-finals series is finished.

“There are positives and negatives from having players playing over in the NRL.

“It’s a different competition and a tough one so they get benefits from playing tough opposition week-in, week-out, which will bring a whole wealth of experience to us.

“The down side is obviously that we don’t see much of them during the season.

“But part of my job is to make sure that they feel fully integrated and understand what we’re trying to do.

“I don’t see it as a hindrance.

“Those players who are out there are experienced and most have been with us in the past and understand what’s required.”

Hull KR loose forward Dave Petersen is to join his Robins team-mate Louis Sheriff in Australia in 2013.

The 20-year-old, who made four Super League appearances in 2012 when he spent most of the season on a dual registration with Workington, was due to sign a new deal at Craven Park when he received an offer from Queensland Cup team Mackay Cutters.