Junior Nsemba set for England call to face Samoa after becoming Wigan wonder

Picture by Paul Currie/SWpix.com – 06/08/2024 – Rugby League – Betfred Super League Round 2 – Wigan Warriors v Leigh Leopards – the Brick Community Stadium, Wigan, England – Junior Nsemba of Wigan Warriors scores the 1st try and celebrates

JUNIOR Nsemba is set to be rewarded for his meteoric rise with an England call-up.

The Wigan youngster has established himself as one of the best back rowers in Super League in his first season as first choice.

Wigan’s Junior Nsemba is set to be called up for England’s Test series against SamoaSWPIX.COM

Now SunSport understands the 20-year-old, who was born in the town to Cameroonian parents and whose auntie is married to former Liverpool star Rigobert Song, is likely to be in the 30-man party to face Samoa.

Boss Shaun Wane’s full party for the two Tests against the World Cup finalists that stunned England in the semi-final will be revealed on Friday.

And it is believed Nsemba, overlooked for the mid-season Test in France because of his lack of experience, has done enough to gatecrash the squad.

He is likely to compete for a starting spot with Kai Pearce-Paul, who has starred in the NRL since leaving Wigan for Newcastle Knights.

John Bateman, currently on loan at Warrington, is also in the running while other players based Down Under include Herbie Farnworth, Morgan Smithies, Thomas Burgess and Dom Young.

It is understood checks are being made on Victor Radley’s shoulder injury before a decision is made.

Nsemba’s likely call-up will cap a remarkable rise, which includes winning the Challenge Cup at Wembley.

He also told SunSport how the power of prayer is helping him, saying: “10 minutes before our meeting, I’ll put a bit of gospel music on. I’m a Christian, so I’ll listen to that then I’ll pray.

“I have a cross on my wrist tape and before a game, I get on my knees and pray to God to protect both teams, to protect me and wish for a good game.

Samoa stunned England in the World Cup semi-finalSWPIX.COM

“But once you’re in a game, you’re in a game of rugby. It’s intense, it’s fast, you can’t really be laid back there.

“Before this season, though, my ambition was just to get a game.”