Kruise Leeming reflected on his devastating World Cup snub by shedding a tear and making a vow – to become the best hooker in Super League in 2023. The Leeds Rhinos captain had hoped to make England’s 24-man squad after a fine season which saw him help his club reach the Super League Grand Final.
Yet Wane instead opted for Catalans Dragons veteran Micky McIlorum and Salford’s Andy Ackers as his two hookers, with England disappointingly dumped out at the semi-final stage by Samoa. When the England boss phoned Leeming with the bad news, it hit the former Huddersfield Giants man hard – but he is determined to ensure he is picked for the next England squad.
Leeming told Leeds Live: “Shaun Wane rang me and said it was one of the toughest calls he’s had to make. It broke my heart because I genuinely thought I had done enough to get in the World Cup squad.