Elliot Minchella reflects on the tough times as he targets England debut

Hull KR captain Elliot Minchella admits receiving an England call-up would have been the “last thing” on his mind a few years ago but is now preparing for his potential debut ahead of Saturday’s Test meeting with France.

The Toulouse contest will be England’s first action since their 3-0 series whitewash over Tonga in the winter.

Minchella has been one of the stand-out performers at Craven Park this season as Rovers have moved to within two points Betfred Super League summit.

The Bradford-born back-rower has drawn on his past and admitted he never thought he would be in this position when he used to work as a builder.

Minchella told the PA news agency: “A few years ago I was working on a building site, so this is the last thing that would have been on my mind.

“It’s been a goal of mine as time has gone on but there have been times where it couldn’t have been further away.

“I’ve been trying to prove myself by performing well week in, week out and hopefully do enough for those that make the decisions.

“But there have been times where I couldn’t think of anything further away than playing for England, working in the rain and snow.

“There have been times before I was driving to building sites in Bradford thinking ‘this is tough’ – but this is definitely not tough, it’s the best and I love it.

“There are no barriers to stop you achieving from what you want to achieve, so it’s humbling.”

Minchella’s performances during the 2023 Super League season earned him the captain’s armband for the 2024 campaign.

The 28-year-old has been a big presence for Rovers so far this season, making nearly 500 tackles for the Challenge Cup semi-finalists and scoring his first try of the season in the Super League win at Castleford last week.

Now Minchella hopes to make his family proud when he steps onto the field on Saturday.

He added: “I’ve had loads of messages, (my) family are really proud, community club West Bowling are absolutely over the moon, so (I’m) really glad for them as well.

“It’s something my dad and godparents can take pride from and hopefully I can pay them back a bit and put a smile on their faces come Saturday.

“My dad shed a tear or two but he’s done a great job with me, brought me up on my own, I’m proud that I can have that effect on him and give him some back now and hope he enjoys it.”

England have been training at Wigan’s Robin Park facility before they fly to France later on Friday.

Minchella added: “It’s unbelievable here, it’s the first time I’ve been here so I need to make the most of it.

“I want to take advantage of this wonderful opportunity because it really is. I’m 28 now and it’s the first time I’ve been involved so I’ve waited a long time for it.

“Learning from other players and the coach – it’s a completely different voice to what we have at club level.

“So (I’ll try) to be a sponge and enjoy it and put my best foot forward.”