LeagueNews.co | Jason Patrick
Corey Parker has raised concerns that rugby league might find it challenging to retain Reece Walsh, given the appealing global presence of rugby union.
Coming off an extraordinary grand-final performance, Walsh's popularity soared even higher following his impressive Test debut during Australia's opening Ashes victory.
As he approaches the second Test in Liverpool, Walsh has become the most discussed rugby league player in England. In the previous match at Wembley, he demonstrated his skill by scoring two tries, breaking five tackles, and running a remarkable 243 metres.
The 23-year-old is on the verge of completing what could be one of the most remarkable seasons in recent history, with the potential to secure a series win when the match kicks off at 1:30am AEDT on Sunday.
Walsh has established himself as one of the most marketable figures in rugby league, achieving celebrity status comparable to icons like Benji Marshall and Sonny Bill Williams during their prime.
The Queensland talent leads in social media followings, boasting nearly 1.1 million followers combined on Instagram and TikTok, making him the top rugby league player on these platforms.
While Parker expresses confidence in Walsh's ability to handle the media frenzy, he remains concerned that this attention might tempt Walsh to consider opportunities in rugby union.
"In rugby league, it's just harnessed here in Australia and in the north of England. If you look at rugby union, for example, that is worldwide."