Former West Bowling duo Nathan Conroy and Elliot Minchella could turn out for England’s Academy side against France this weekend as they continue their rise to prominence.

Conroy is on the books at the Bulls and Minchella plays for Leeds Rhinos, with both rookies having earned inclusion in a 20-man squad for the international against France Under-18s in La Reoule.

West Bowling junior chairman Martin Tordoff said of Minchella: “Elliot has been with the club since he could carry a ball and his dad was a player here, plus he is also my godson, so has very strong ties with the club.

“He has always played a year above himself as his skill level and size was so far in front of other kids in his own age group.

“His attitude has improved year on year with being at Leeds and I’m sure he will keep developing as he just loves rugby league.”

Minchella plays at loose forward or stand-off, while Conroy, who has been in the squad along with Bulls team-mates Oliver Roberts and Alex Mellor, plays at hooker.

Tordoff said: “Nathan joined the club from another Bradford junior team at the age of 13 and was soon established as a top player.

“He will always guarantee 100 per cent with a massive work rate and he just keeps improving with the Bulls’ input.

“It makes me very proud to see two young lads who have come through our junior ranks and made the grade to play for their country.”

West Bowling is a noted breeding ground for local talent and Tordoff added: “At the moment we have the biggest junior club in Bradford with over 200 kids playing rugby at a good standard and being coached really well by coaches who are really enthusiastic and have good knowledge of the game.

“I think that’s why we will hopefully keep producing good kids.”