Huddersfield Giants duo Ashton Golding and Michael Lawrence have been picked for a Jamaica Rugby League 2021 World Cup training camp.
The John Smith’s Stadium stars have both represented their country before. Lawrence, 31, a utility player made his full international debut in 2019 playing against the England Knights team.
Golding, 24, a full-back/winger scored a try on his debut appearance in 2017 when the Reggae Warriors played France in a World Cup warm up game.
It will be Jamaica’s first ever appearance at a World Cup. Their international side started in 2009.
Warriors’ head coach Romeo Monteith has announced a three-day camp, to take place from 22-24 June at Weetwood Hall in Leeds for the English-based players. The camp will be led by London Skolars head coach Jermaine Coleman.
Due to Covid-19 restrictions the other 14 players who play over in Jamaica are not allowed to travel as of yet.
Monteith spoke to the Jamaican Rugby League website and said about the squad: “We have named a strong train-on squad which gives us coverage in all positions.
“Only 24 players can make the final cut and so I know everyone will want to put himself in the best position to be selected. For the first time we have adequate options in the halves and our forwards are looking to have depth. Our backs have always been our strength and we will again have plenty options there.
“It’s extremely disappointing that we weren’t allowed a mid-season international. But second to that a camp is the next best thing we can arrange. Our UK operation directors Alex Simmons and Jason Robinson have worked hard to make it a possibility and I am confident our preparations will greatly benefit from it.
“We also hope to have a similar camp in Jamaica for the domestic-based players but we are still waiting on Government approval to return to activities on the island. Certainly, it’s not been a normal time and like other sports we have suffered greatly.”
