Dragons stars speak out in support of Denver Test

The Test, to be held during the representative weekend in June, has attracted plenty of debate. Officials have been forced to weigh concerns surrounding player welfare with the long-term benefits of engaging with a new market ahead of the American-hosted 2025 World Cup.

With a game two days after the players are likely to return and three potential representatives, Widdop, Graham and Kiwi Jason Nightingale, St George Illawarra stand to be affected by the Test.

The Dragons face the Eels in the opening game of round 16 at WIN Stadium.

Widdop and Graham, however, believe the benefits of taking a Test to an emerging market outweigh the potential downsides.

“I am a huge huge fan of international rugby league,” Graham said. “We need as much of it as we can, especially on the back of a great World Cup. This Test in Denver is a huge opportunity to showcase the game.

“In terms of the turnaround, it’s not ideal, we know that. Maybe there could have been some conversations like they probably would have done with the Origin and setting it up with the short turnaround, but if that’s what you’ve got to do, that’s what you’ve got to do. I’m here as a rugby league player and I want to be involved in international rugby league as much as I possibly can.”

While there will no doubt be discussion of resting players, Graham, if selected, has a desire to play in both the Test and the Dragons clash. 

“I need to make sure I’m playing well to get picked, first and foremost. 

“If I am given the opportunity, I want to play for England in Denver, and then I want to come back and play for St George Illawarra on the Thursday.”

The match will be played in the mountain air of Denver. This has increased the concerns of the clubs, with altitude known to place a bigger strain on the body.

Widdop recognises the issues surrounding player welfare, but said he would not turn down an opportunity to represent his country.

“For me as a player, any chance you get to represent your country, it’s a privilege and an honour,” Widdop said. “It doesn’t come around too often, so for me anytime I’m selected, I’ll be putting my hand up to play for my country. 

“To take it over to Denver, where we’re trying to grow the game, I think it’s great for the international game. On the flip-side, I think we’ve only got two or three days before our game. To be honest I haven’t given a thought to that yet, first I need to get selected, and then we’ll go from there and work out with staff what they want to do.”