Another thing not to underestimate when players seek opportunities down under (aside from rugby reasons) is the absolute $h17 show that this country is at the minute, and likely will be for the next decade. I know one thing for certain, if one of my kids was considering a move in their relevant profession to Australia and the opportunity presented itself, I'd be strongly encouraging them to take it.

Hope to see both go well. They’re chalk and cheese in playing styles but both have the games to really thrive. They’ll love Smithies aggression and workrate and KPP will be a handful running the ball wide and we’ll hopefully see a bit more of his offload game.

According to rugbyleagueontv on twitter, Newcastle v Canberra has been dropped from the Sky schedule tomorrow.

Really impressive debut from Smithies. They'll love his style over there and as gutting as it is to lose a lad like that, I think he's done the right thing for his career. The things he's exceptional at are valued massively in the NRL and he'll enhance his reputation massively. It's good to see these lads getting out of their comfort zones and testing themselves, even if you'd rather they stayed at Wigan.

Yes, very good debut. Kept himself busy, especially second half. Had the ball stripped one on one towards the end but other than that a rock solid performance. They'll love him over there. KPP got on for Newcastle in the second half. Nice couple of offloads from him and the commentators were impressed with his size. Looks to have filled out a bit. Two good lads who will flourish in the NRL

Yeah. Is the English game in such bad shape? I keep reading Aussie fans saying what a rubbish comp SL is, and didn't Gus Gould say Penrith would declare at half-time against Saints? I don't think so, despite the best efforts of the RFL! The NRL's best team has played Saints and Wigan, and only scored 12 points against each in two defeats. Which doesn't win you many games. Unless, of course, going by today's results, you are actually playing Penrith. In which case, it seems sometimes a mere eight points are sufficient! And I think Morgan and KPP will be good additions to the NRL.