Why Ben Currie moved to loose forward with Warrington Wolves

Having played almost exclusively on the edges throughout his lengthy Wire career to date, Currie lined up at number 13 against Hull FC in Round Two and all of his appearances since then have been in that role.

On Friday night, he delivered another superb display as he earned Sky Sports’ player of the match award having helped The Wire to a 34-8 win at Leeds Rhinos.

His highlight was a superbly disguised short ball that sent Joe Bullock over for the third of Warrington’s six tries at Headingley, displaying the deft handling that was often the trademark of an “old school” loose forward.

Ben Currie is interviewed by Sky Sports' Jenna Brooks after being named player of the match against Leeds (Image: SWPix.com)

“He played pretty good, didn’t he? I’ll keep him there next week,” joked head coach Sam Burgess when asked about Currie’s display.

Indeed, Currie’s form has led many to wonder why a move to the middle has not arrived sooner.

So how did it come about? And having played with and trained alongside Currie with England, did Burgess feel he had the hallmarks to excel in his new role?

“I didn’t have a clue, to be honest,” he admitted.

“He came to me and asked to play a bit of middle. We were pretty short at the time and it’s worked pretty well for him.

“He’s enjoying his game again. I think Ben would probably say he’s maybe not made the most of some parts of his career, but I think it’s a great time for him to step up in that role and he’s really enjoying it.

“We played him and Jordy Crowther in there tonight and they combined pretty well.

“I’ve certainly got a few headaches in the next couple of weeks so we’ll see what happens.”