Quote: Aboveusonlypie "I know what you mean and I remember that Salford game. But I have to admit to being impressed with Bateman's discipline this season, when actually the discipline of everyone else seems to have suffered. Since the 'ban' he has controlled himself very well and I would have have no hesitation playing him for England. For his size he does seem to have freakish strength so the point about him being small, whilst being a fair point when talking about others, doesn't seem to apply to him IMO.
I agree with your choice. Ferres has never let England down and I have no problem with him being picked. I also think Burgess will play second row. We have Graham, Walmsley, Hill, Taylor and Watts for the front row and that is without the Burgess brothers who I think may be picked by the coach, but are inferior to those I've named.'"
I've hardly managed to watch any NRL this year - were the Burgess brothers so bad? Adding three debutants at prop when we have those two to call upon is a big call. Agree about having Taylor in though, he should have been in last time as well.