Chan ‘looking forward’ to England test
Tiaki Chan has shared his excitement in facing Wigan Warriors teammates when france host england in toulouse on Saturday.
The forward has been included in France’s 22-player squad to face England at the Stade Ernest-Wallon on Saturday evening in a double-header which will also see France Women take on England Women.
Sharing his pride on being called up by France head coach, Laurent Frayssinous, Chan said: “Every time I receive an international call up it’s always a blessing. I had a call a few weeks ago notifying me that I’d be in a larger squad before I was told last week that I’d be in the final 22-player squad – now I cannot wait.”
Chan flew back to France on Sunday to spend time alongside his family before he will join the rest of the squad when camp starts on Wednesday.
Speaking on the strength of the France squad, Chan said: “The side we have at the minute is very strong – one of the strongest. A lot of the French lads are branched out in England and playing across the Super League competition which is only going to benefit French rugby league. We are very excited to start training later this week before getting out there with each other on Saturday.”
Chan, who made his France debut in a defeat to England in 2023, is relishing a second battle against Shaun Wane’s side this weekend: “It was a disappointing result for us but England are one of the strongest and best side’s in the world. We are looking forward to testing ourselves again on Saturday and seeing what we can do against England this time around.”
The 24-year-old could line up against a quarter of Warriors teammates in Toulouse after Tyler Dupree, Brad O’Neill, Harry Smith and Luke Thompson were selected in England’s 20-player squad on Monday afternoon.
On facing England and familiar faces, Chan said: “When you come up against England you expect a tough and physical battle which is definitely what you’ll get with Brad, Tyler and Tommo. They’ve all got that have a go and intimidate mentality which I’m expecting to see on Saturday more than anyone. I’m keen and looking forward to the challenge when coming up against them.”
Saturday’s international fixture will be streamed live on Super League+ with the Women’s clash kicking off at 2:30pm (BST) and the Men’s at 5pm (BST).
