English recruit Morgan Smithies has made a bold statement as he gears up to join the Canberra Raiders for the 2024 season. The 23-year-old arrived in Australia on Friday with hopes of earning a spot in the club’s starting side. Smithies, who won a Super League title with Wigan last season, is looking to secure a position in Canberra’s forward pack after signing a three-year contract. He is determined not to “make up the numbers” and is ready to compete for a starting role.
Smithies sees himself as a number 13 but is versatile and can play in the back row or anywhere in the forward pack. He acknowledges that there will be competition for positions but believes that it will only push him to train harder and improve his game. He sees the competition for spots as a positive thing and is looking forward to the challenge.
The English recruit’s confidence and ambition have set the stage for a potential selection headache for Raiders coach Ricky Stuart. With Smithies determined to secure a spot in the starting side, Stuart will have to make tough decisions about his forward pack. The competition for positions will likely push all players in the pack to train harder and improve their performance.
Smithies’ arrival in Australia and his declaration of intent have brought an air of excitement and anticipation to the Raiders’ pre-season. His determination to earn a starting spot and his confidence in his abilities have set the tone for a competitive and fierce battle for positions within the team. As the pre-season progresses, all eyes will be on Smithies and the rest of the forward pack as they push themselves to earn their place in the starting side for the 2024 season.
The addition of Smithies to the Raiders’ roster adds depth and talent to the forward pack. With his Super League title win and his determination to make an impact in the NRL, Smithies brings with him a competitive edge that will benefit the team as a whole. His versatility and willingness to compete for a starting role will only serve to elevate the performance of the entire forward pack as they push each other to improve and excel on the field.
As Smithies joins the Raiders for the upcoming season, his ambition and determination to make an impact will undoubtedly make him a player to watch. His arrival has set the stage for a competitive and exciting pre-season as he vies for a spot in Canberra’s starting side. With a strong work ethic and a drive to succeed, Smithies is poised to make a significant impact in the NRL and contribute to the success of the Raiders in the upcoming season.
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