Jamaica and the USA have revealed their squads for an upcoming men’s senior international rugby league match set to take place at the University of West Indies’ Mona Bowl in Kingston.
The game, scheduled for this Saturday at 3:00 p.m. local time, holds significance as it offers world ranking points and marks the Reggae Warriors’ return to international competition since their World Cup appearance a year ago. Notably, this will be only the third international match held in Jamaica in the past 18 years.
The Hawks, representing the USA, currently lead the head-to-head encounters with a 6-2 record, although Jamaica has won the last two meetings between the teams. For this game, the hosts are set to introduce newcomers Daniel Graham, Tahjay Lynch, Hakeem Richards, Kahil Green, Oshane Edie, and Kamarine Williams. However, Khamisi McKain, who played in the World Cup, will be absent due to his recovery from a broken leg.
Tough competition
Roy Calvert, the lead coach for Jamaica’s men’s team, expressed his anticipation for the match, noting that the Hawks have consistently provided tough competition. He stressed the importance of offering opportunities for domestic players in the Americas to test themselves at a high level.
Calvert also highlighted the strategic focus on nurturing young talents to build for the future, with seasoned players like Thompson and Bailey mentoring the next generation.
The USA men’s team, after a four-year absence from the international scene, is eager to return to action. Their most recent encounter was a 38-16 loss to the Cook Islands in the RLWC2021 repechage game. The Hawks will feature a refreshed line-up drawn from seven different clubs.
Back in action
USA head coach Sean Rutgerson expressed his delight at having the men’s Hawks back in action, emphasizing the long-awaited return to the field. He noted the inclusion of eight new players aiming for their first cap during the upcoming match in Jamaica.
JAMAICA SQUAD: Akeem Murray, Andrew Simpson, Chevaughn Bailey, Daniel Graham, Jade Harrison, Kenneth Walker, Kevin Thomas, Kile Nembhard, Marvin Thompson, Owen Linton, Ryan Grant (Duhaney Park Red Sharks), Adrian Hall (Liguanea Dragons), Tahjay Lynch (St Catherine OB Thundercats), Hakeem Richards, Kahil Green, Oshane Edie, Reinhardo Richards (Washington Blvd Bulls), Kamarine Williams, Omar Jones (West Kingston Hyenas)
USA SQUAD: Sean Hunt (Atlanta Rhinos), Tevita Bryce, Kyle Granby (Brooklyn Kings), Urban Iyo, Peter Lupton (Boston 13s), Ethan Ferrick (DC Cavalry), Ryan Bannerot, Jason Martin, Mason McCrory, David Washington, Malcolm Webb, James Williams (Jacksonville Axemen), Wes Piggins (Southwest Florida Copperheads), Joe Eichner, Matt Finnesy, Gunnar Johnson, Bart Longchamp (Tampa Mayhem).
