Rugby League Stalwart Currie Shines in Preferred 13 Role for Warrington Wolves
Warrington Wolves’ Ben Currie has excelled in his preferred position of loose forward (13) this season, thanks to the faith shown in him by head coach Sam Burgess. The 29-year-old England international, who has previously represented Ireland, has secured his place in Shaun Wane’s national team on the back of his impressive displays for the Wire.
Currie is averaging a remarkable 32 tackles per game in 2024 and has utilized his ball-playing skills as a pivotal part of Warrington’s influential spine. The player, who grew up aspiring to be a 13, has praised Burgess for his role in this upturn in form.
“I’ve been hinting for a couple of years to try and get back there (at loose forward), and Sam finally took the chance this year and hopefully it’s paying off,” Currie told Love Rugby League. “He has surrounded himself with good coaching staff as well and he’s probably one of the best man managers I’ve ever seen.”
The Golborne Parkside junior, who has played in various positions including back-row and centre, believes the 13 role suits him best as it allows him to be more involved in the game from the outset.
“I just feel you control more of what happens. In the back-row sometimes you are kind of waiting a bit for the ball to come to you whereas at 13 you are kind of involved from the off,” he explained.
Currie’s impressive performances have earned him a call-up to the England squad for their upcoming Test match against France in Toulouse on Saturday. While he would love to cement the 13 jersey for his country, the versatile Warrington star is happy to play anywhere for the national team.
“I’d love to tie a certain position down for international but having the versatility I’ve got can get you in squads for major tournaments so I’m happy either way,” he said.
The mid-season clash in France promises to be a tough encounter, but Currie is confident in the squad Wane has assembled, which includes several debutants and younger players alongside experienced Super League and NRL stars.
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