Courtesy of LoveRugbyLeague.
The Scotland Rugby League have revealed that Billy ‘Madness’ McConnachie of the Ipswich Jets will make his debut for the Bravehearts against Australia at Hull KR’s ground in this year’s Four Nations.
McConnachie was meant to make his debut for Scotland in last year’s European Championships, but was suspended after a fracas in the Australian national final.
The Mount Isa’s native has been nicknamed ‘Madness’ for his robust style of play, which has seen several opponents knocked out after bouncing off his chest in tackles.
Although he earned a deal at Wests Tigers for 2016, McConnachie has now moved back to the Jets, inking a dual-deal with them and NRL outfit Brisbane Broncos.
He is relishing the chance to pull on the dark blue jersey this year.
“I will feel honoured and privileged to play for Scotland, considering my grandfather – James Muir McConnachie – was from Glasgow,” said the 26-year-old.
“We didn’t get to meet any of his family from Scotland but, coming over to the Four Nations, I want to get a better understanding of my heritage and I want to make my father – William Edward McConnachie –proud.
“My grandfather passed in 2007 and I want to repay the opportunity he and my dad have given me to represent Scotland.
“I was really disappointed to miss out last year. I was disappointed with my first chance to play for Scotland ending up that way, but in this sport it’s just something that happened and I had to go with the rulings that were handed down.
“But I’m very thankful for another opportunity to represent Scotland.”
He also explained the family motivation behind leaving Wests to return to his home state.
“I wasn’t 100 percent happy at Wests and I didn’t want to take my partner and children away from Queensland if I wasn’t 100% happy there,” he said.
“l’m expecting the Four Nations to be a very high level of rugby league.
“It will be tough and challenging but I feel I can step up and make the most of it. I can’t wait!”