Teenage sensation Joe Westerman has the chance to play himself into contention for an England call-up when Castleford take on derby rivals Wakefield at the Jungle on Saturday.
The gifted Tigers loose forward has made a big impression in his first season of Super League, going some way towards justifying onerous comparisons with Andy Farrell, and he could emulate the former Wigan and Great Britain captain later this month by making his international debut at the age of 18.
Westerman has just three more matches to impress England coach Tony Smith before he names his squad for the June 27 match against France in Toulouse, a serious hit-out ahead of the end-of-season World Cup in Australia.
"It depends what the mentality is for that game and how many they're taking but his form against Warrington in the last match was top shelf," said Castleford coach Terry Matterson.
"He has really got to challenge himself this week. His two performances against Wakefield have been poor so this is a big one for him.
"In between his really good games, he's had some poor games as well but I think, if he keeps going the way he is, you never know. If Tony is thinking about the future, he's as good as anyone.
"He's improving, his defence is getting stronger and he's getting more confidence. You forget at times that he's 18. The physicality of it all can get on top of you at times but I'm really pleased with the way he's going and how he's handled it.
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