With the 2019 Super League season starting on Friday, Last Word On Rugby thought it an opportune time to mention five players to keep an eye out for, throughout the campaign.
2019 Super League: Players to watch
Blake Austin
The stand-off signed for Warrington in July and is seen as the man to help them seal that elusive Grand Final victory. The Wire bought him from Canberra Raiders and he has clocked up more than a century of matches for the Raiders, West Tigers and Penrith Panthers. Australian-born Austin is a running halfback, scoring 42 tries in his NRL career.
Alex Walker
The young London Broncos fullback first gained attention in the Million Pound Game against Toronto when an opening minute tackle saw him dislocate three fingers. Despite this, he produced a try-saving tackle in the 70th minute as London gained promotion. The 23-year-old has been capped by Scotland and could catch the eye of other top-flight clubs if he continues to build on last season’s performances.
Alex Walmsley
The St Helens prop has made 151 appearances for the club as well as five for England. However 2019 is an important season, being out injured since March. The 28-year-old fractured a bone in his neck and his return will provide a boost for Justin Holbrook’s men. Furthermore, the Cumbrian’s go-forward is a key asset as Saints look to triumph at Old Trafford in October.
Akulia Uate
Huddersfield Giants secured the signature of winger Akulia Uate from Manly Sea Eagles in the off-season and he has an impressive reputation. A scorer of 129 tries in 200 NRL games, the 31-year-old began his career with Newcastle Knights. The Fijian born flyer was named NRL’s best winger three times and has represented Fiji and Australia at international level.
Konrad Hurrell
The Tongan arrived in the close season from Gold Coast Titans as one of Leeds Rhinos’ marquee signings. Known for his strength, Hurrell forms one of the best centre partnerships in Super League with Rhinos’ captain Kallum Watkins. In addition, his deft ball handling skills could create plenty of tries on the left edge.
The 27-year-old will link up with international teammate Tui Lolohea and former Tonga assistant coach David Furner.
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Those are just five names to loo out for. We look forward to the performances of these five players and how they affect the fortunes of their respective teams. There will be a huge number more that will grab fans attention; from young stars to workhorses and fresh talent.
The 2019 Super League begins on Thursday January 31.
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