No - I don't think anyone actually considers this and I can see why.

According to Russel Crowe Sam has gone because he was not permitted to play Origin - I have asked the question before about how much player's in Origin can earn but nobody seems to know - but for me the quality produced in Origin may be because there is more than just state pride on the line.

I'm still waiting to see if there's any truth in the rumour that Sam had some kind of bust-up with Souths.

I too find it very difficult to believe that having won constant rave reviews in the crucible of the NRL - where RU is routinely laughed at, especially the Pommie variety - but never having won any actual silverware to prove his credentials, big Sam was suddenly bowled over by the thought of representing England RU; to an extent where it would turn both his and his family's worlds upside down. The idea is almost laughable.

First Live Game featuring Wigan on TV in NZ for a very very long time.

Come on Wigan.

Bit Grim at half time. Not likely to win but we could claw this back a fair way by cutting out the errors.

<sigh> www.smh.com.au/rugby-league/leag ... 33911.html

<sigh> www.smh.com.au/rugby-league/leag ... 33911.html

I entirely agree....

+ 1

I wonder how this affects Joel Tomkins. He seems to be further and further down the pecking order as far as the England team is concerned. Is he a realistic hope for the World Cup.

I don't follow union and wouldn't know if he is playing well or even if he is playing at all. What are the chances of a return to League?

having watched the England ru games he played in I'd doubt he'll be getting anywhere near their world cup side. would like to see him back tbh as the season he had as second row before his move to centre he was very very good.

I think Joel has maxed out in RU with his couple of caps. However, he can still earn way more than we were paying him and can play Heineken Cup rugby even if he never pulls on an England shirt again.

Joel got injured against New Zealand in November and I don't think he has played since. He hasn't set RU alight but was doing ok and was involved in a win against Australia. I can't see him returning to RL any time soon.

I was expecting to see Eastmond returning to RL, but he has signed a new contract for Bath.

A quick check of the Saracens website confirms that he was on the replacements bench on the last two games the last one being at Salford against Sale. Can't think why I didn't go!