EORL CRABTREE believes Danny Brough and Shaun Lunt’s England snubs will be to the Huddersfield Giants’ advantage.
The in-form 30-year-old prop has this week been named in the 20-man squad for next Friday’s Origin Test against the Exiles at Warrington.
Teammates Leroy Cudjoe and Brett Ferres have also been called up for the one-off summer Test as England prepare for this autumn’s World Cup.
Crabtree is delighted he’s been joined in the national squad by two of his teammates.
But he’s trying to look on the bright side over the non-inclusion of the in-form Brough and Lunt.
“I’m always delighted when I’m picked, and I’m really made up for Brett that he’s back in the squad, because his form’s been fantastic,” said Crabtree, who is part of an unchanged squad of 19 for tomorrow’s trip to Hull KR..
“And no-one’s surprised Leroy’s kept his place. He’s been consistently good all year.
“But I think everyone’s surprised there’s no Broughy or Lunty.
“Broughy’s now resigned himself to the fact his future doesn’t lie with England, and that’s a decision probably borne out of frustration at constantly being overlooked. As far as I’m concerned, he’s the best half-back in Super League.
“And Lunty’s form all year has also been sensational. He was good before he went on loan to Leeds, but he’s come back to us an even better player.
“That’s why I feel so disappointed for them. But I also know their omissions will be of tremendous benefit to the Giants .
“You don’t get much chance to rest during a season, particularly if you’re involved in the summer internationals.
“So while Brett and Leroy and myself are training with England, Broughy and Lunty will be able to have a very well-earned rest.
“They’re two of our most influential players – after all, they’re our half-back and hooker – and they’ve both got through an incredible amount of work for us this season.
“They’re probably both in need of a rest to make sure they can freshen themselves up and finish the season as strongly as possible. England’s loss can be the Giants’ gain.”
