More Super League stars should test themselves in NRL, says George Williams

The former Wigan halfback is the latest Englishman to thrive Down Under.

He was the headline act in the Raiders’ 22-6 win at Melbourne, carving out two first-half tries and also proving his defensive mettle which prompted Kangaroos legend Brad Fittler to describe his performance as “flawless” and “10 out of 10”.

And asked whether he would like to see other players try their hand in the NRL, Williams said: “I hope so.

“I don’t think the Super League would be happy for me to say that.

“But there are a few others who can come over and do well.

“I know Luke Thompson is coming over (from St Helens to join Canterbury Bulldogs), he’s a great player.

“This is the best league in the world and that’s why I came here to embrace it.”

His close friend Oliver Gildart recently appointed an Australian agent, Sam Ayoub, to explore any NRL options. Englishmen Ryan Sutton, John Bateman, Elliott Whitehead and Josh Hodgson are also at Canberra.

Williams, who left Wigan last season, had earlier been praised for his form in the opening two rounds but is not getting carried away by the attention.

“Obviously I’ve had a bit of media this week and you’ve got to enjoy the moment, but take it in your stride and not get worried about it. I’ll keep my head down,” says Williams, whose side face Newcastle Knights on Sunday (7am).

“There were a few nice touches, but I missed a few tackles too and that’s what I want to improve on.

“I have played one good game, but I’ve got to back that up now.”

Williams, an academy product at Wigan, has been switched to the right side by coach Ricky Stuart, who has a reputation for being a fiery character.

“That’s something in the back of my head I questioned, just as I’d not done it, so it was new to me,” he added.

“But it was a good thing. I’m not locked in on the right – I’ve got the freedom from Ricky.”

Williams, meanwhile, spoke of his frustrations that the Ashes series between England and Australia has been cancelled in wake of the coronavirus crisis.

“I’m a bit disappointed about that, it was a goal of mine to get into that team at the end of the year, but it’s not meant to be,” he added.