Super League Exiles: Returning to the Fray in 2024?

The Super League Exiles haven’t graced the pitch since 2013, but with England seeking more consistent and competitive international matches, the time may be ripe to bring them back. Formed in 2011, the Exiles faced off against England in the International Origin series, emerging victorious in two series between 2011 and 2013.

There have also been friendly clashes between England and a Combined All-Stars side in 2021 and 2022, though the mid-season test against France last season meant no 2023 edition. But how might the Exiles line up if they returned in 2024? Here’s a potential starting 13 that showcases some of Super League’s finest talent.

Fullback

Matt Moylan (Leigh Leopards)
The man currently second in the Man of Steel leaderboard slots into the number 1 jersey. Since switching to fullback, Moylan has established himself as a key cog in the Leigh Leopards’ attack, notching 11 try assists and creating numerous try-scoring chances this season.

Wingers

Abbas Miski (Wigan Warriors) and Waqa Blake (St Helens)
Miski has been a revelation for the Warriors, notching a staggering 26 tries in Super League in 2023 and continuing that form into the new campaign with nine tries so far. Waqa Blake has also found his feet at St Helens, scoring nine tries and providing consistent performances on the flank.

Centres

Peta Hiku (Hull KR) and Nene Macdonald (Salford Red Devils)
Two of the signings of the season line up in the centres, with Hiku and Macdonald proving to be dynamic additions to their respective clubs. Hiku sits joint second in the try-scoring charts with 11 tries, while Macdonald leads the way for carries and metres gained for the Red Devils.

Half-backs

Brodie Croft (Leeds Rhinos) and Bevan French (Wigan Warriors)
It’s hard to look past this pairing, with Croft the heartbeat of the Leeds attack and French the reigning Man of Steel, seamlessly transitioning to the halves and leading the way for try assists.

Props

Tom Amone (Leigh Leopards) and Paul Vaughan (Warrington Wolves)
Two of Super League’s most imposing front-rowers take the front-row spots, with Amone and Vaughan providing a punishing physical presence and impressive metres gained for their respective clubs.

Hooker

Edwin Ipape (Leigh Leopards)
Despite injury setbacks, Ipape has proven to be a constant threat out of dummy-half for the Leopards, notching three tries in his limited appearances this season.

Second-row

Rhyse Martin (Leeds Rhinos) and Kai O’Donnell (Leigh Leopards)
The back-row was a tough choice, but Martin’s ball-playing ability and goal-kicking skills, combined with O’Donnell’s try-scoring exploits and front-foot carries, make them an excellent pairing.

Loose forward

Kelepi Tanginoa (Hull KR)
Rounding out the side is Hull KR’s Tanginoa, whose powerful running and tackle-busting ability have made him a pivotal figure for the Robins.

“The time may be ripe to bring them back.”

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