LeagueNews.co | Jess Malloy
The 2025 Ashes series has seen a notable change in player selection, as Sydney Roosters outside back Billy Smith has declared his commitment to representing England.
Smith, who has faced significant injury challenges, has participated in only 41 matches since making his debut for the Roosters in 2019, with 14 of those occurring this year alone.
Last year, he managed to play 15 games, marking a period where he finally began to enjoy a stretch of matches without serious injuries.
Although he was initially touted as one of the best young talents in the sport, Smith has struggled to consistently showcase that potential. Nonetheless, he has scored eight tries and provided three try assists this year.
Additionally, he has averaged just under 100 metres per game while playing for a Roosters team on the cusp of the top eight.
Eligible to represent England through family ties, Smith reached out to national coach Shaun Wane, expressing his enthusiasm to play for the team, as reported by The Sydney Morning Herald.