Dean Hadley says he feels he’s “doing his job well” at Hull KR, despite being overlooked by Shaun Wane for England’s extended squad ahead of the upcoming Ashes series.
The versatile forward, one of Hull KR’s most consistent players in recent years, was omitted from the 32-player squad announced at the end of June. Despite leading the Super League table, the Robins only had four representatives – Mikey Lewis, Jez Litten, Elliot Minchella and James Batchelor, with the latter the only one yet to earn an England cap.
The likes of in-form Rovers wingers Joe Burgess and Tom Davies were also left out alongside Hadley, which sparked debate.
Sky Sports pundit Jon Wilkin previously insisted that the trio could have felt “disgruntled” by their omissions, while former Wigan and Hull KR scrum-half Craig Murdock labelled Hadley as the best player in Super League, when speaking to Love Rugby League last month.
England head coach Wane, however, hinted that Hadley may not be able to “hack it” against world champions Australia. In contrast, Hull KR boss Willie Peters backed his player, insisting Hadley has what it takes to step up to the international level.
The in-form forward confessed that playing for England would be “the pinnacle” of his career but remains focused on Hull KR and personal development – even at 32 years old.
The Robins lead the way in Super League by four points over reigning champions Wigan Warriors, and have a weekend off following their win over Catalans Dragons in Perpignan.
“Honestly, you ask any player if they want to go and play for their country, that’s the pinnacle,” Hadley told Sky Sports. “For me, it’s about playing for Hull KR.
“We’ve got a good squad here and you have to be at it every week to be in the team. For me, it’s about doing my job here. That might look different to other people, but I’d like to think I’m doing my job well.
“I’ve still got loads of improvement in me, and that’s what I’m striving to do. Every day I turn up looking to improve and keep getting better. I’m not the youngest anymore, but I can still keep improving. As long as I’m doing my job here, that’s all that matters.”