New Bulls recruit Dale Ferguson has tipped Danny Addy to shine in Scotland’s World Cup campaign.
Ferguson switched allegiance back to the Bravehearts after playing for England Knights last year and was instrumental in getting Addy on board.
The pair could line up alongside each other in Scotland’s opening group match against Tonga in Workington next Tuesday.
Ferguson, who has joined the Bulls on a two-year contract from Huddersfield, said: “Danny’s dad coaches an amateur team over our way in Pontefract and I just asked him if he had any Scottish blood.
“Danny said his grandma was a Scot and I said it would be great if he was on board with us and an asset to the team.
“I know Danny well – he’s a good lad and a good player, so he took the opportunity with both hands.”
Ferguson enjoyed a fine season as Huddersfield finished top of the league table for the first time in 81 years.
Now the 25-year-old back-rower is aiming to help Steve McCormack’s side to reach the knockout stages of the World Cup.
Ferguson, who missed the 2008 tournament through injury, believes Scotland can make an impact thanks to the inclusion of NRL stars Peter Wallace, Luke Douglas and Kane Linnett.
“My heart was always with Scotland and that’s why I ended up going back,” said Ferguson, who qualifies for the Bravehearts through his Edinburgh-born grandfather.
“I had really enjoyed my previous experience with Steve McCormack and his coaching team. That made it easier to switch back and I’m just looking forward to pulling on the Scotland jersey again now.”
The inclusion of Danny Brough and Brisbane Broncos playmaker Wallace has encouraged hopes that Scotland can progress from a group which has pitted them against Tonga, Italy and the United States.
Brough switched allegiance back to Scotland after growing tired of being overlooked by England boss Steve McNamara.
England’s loss is most definitely Scotland’s gain, with Brough having enjoyed the best season of his career and won the coveted Man of Steel award.
“I’ve known Broughy for the past six or seven years now, having played with him for Wakefield, Scotland and Huddersfield,” said Ferguson.
“I think him being made Huddersfield captain this year has brought him on massively both on and off the field.
“He’s been immense and I believe if McNamara wanted him in the England squad then he should have been first-choice.
“But it’s Steve’s team and he’s entitled to choose who he wants. We are obviously delighted to have Danny in our squad.”
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here