Seasoned Warrington Wolves Forward Ben Currie Thrives in Preferred 13 Role Under Coach Burgess, Earns England Call-Up
Warrington Wolves stalwart Ben Currie has excelled in his preferred role of loose forward this season, thanks to the faith shown in him by head coach Sam Burgess. The 29-year-old has retained his place in the England national team on the back of his impressive performances, being called up by Shaun Wane for Saturday’s Test match against France in Toulouse.
Currie, who has previously represented Ireland due to his heritage, has been averaging almost 32 tackles per game in 2024 and has utilized his ball-playing ability as part of Warrington’s influential spine. The England international has praised his coach Burgess for helping him rediscover his form.
“I grew up as a 13, it’s something I always wanted to do,” Currie told Love Rugby League. “The dream was to always be a 13 and a 13 for your country so, if that happens, I’ll be over the moon.”
Currie, a former Golborne Parkside junior, came through the ranks at Warrington as a loose forward but has played the majority of his career as a back-rower until this recent switch to his preferred position. He believes the 13 role allows him to be more involved in the game from the start.
“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,” Currie explained.
While Currie would love the opportunity to play at 13 for England, he is happy to play anywhere for his country.
“Either way I’ll put my hand up to play, I’ve played centre before, I’ve filled in at half, I’ll play anywhere for England, so we’ll see what happens.”
The England squad for the Test against France in Toulouse includes several debutants and younger players, but Currie is confident in the team’s talent.
“It’s going to be a good game,” he said.
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