John Bateman’s rise to prominence will continue tomorrow when he lines up for England Academy against the Australian Institute of Sport in the biggest test of his fledgling career.

The 18-year-old back-rower and fellow Bradford rookies Liam McAvoy, Jack Cockerham and Connor Spencer have all been named in the England Academy squad for the 2012 season.

At least three of the four will feature in tomorrow’s clash at Leigh Sports Village (3pm) as they look to stake their claims to be involved Down Under in next year’s two-match series against the Australians.

Bateman made his Super League bow during the 2011 campaign, memorably scoring his first try against Wigan, but he admits facing Australia represents an even steeper challenge.

The former Dudley Hill amateur, whose family are all avid Bulls fans, helped England’s Academy side to a 28-19 victory over France in June.

Bateman said: “This is definitely the biggest game of my career so far. I’m looking forward to testing myself against Australia because you want to pit your wits against the best in the world don’t you?

“I played at the beginning of this year against France in the 18s – and scoring that try against Wigan was brilliant because the game was live on Sky and all my family were watching.

“But this is the biggest test I’ve had internationally. I’m looking forward to the game - it should be fun.”

* Read full story in today’s Telegraph & Argus