ROHAN Smith has backed in-form Bulls forward Ben Kavanagh to continue where he left off against Australia in tomorrow's crunch clash with England.

Kavanagh starred for Scotland with a try-scoring display in last weekend's Four Nations opener against the Kangaroos.

Although Steve McCormack's Bravehearts lost 54-12 at Hull KR, Kavanagh was among their stand-out performers.

The 28-year-old will now pit his wits against the Burgess boys as Scotland look to pull off a major upset against Wayne Bennett's side at Coventry's Ricoh Arena.

Bradford boss Smith said: "Being a key part of the Scotland side during the Four Nations is awesome for Ben.

"I thought he did an excellent job in very tough conditions against the Aussies last week, particularly when carrying the ball. He was very effective there but also hit a nice line for his try.

"This weekend against England is another great challenge for Kav and he's a guy who will really benefit from the three big battles he will have against the world's best forward packs.

"He can bring that experience back to Bradford with him heading into pre-season and next year to become a key leader in our group.

"I also really hope that Scotland can maintain some of the intensity they showed in patches against Australia last week."

Kavanagh endured an injury-plagued debut campaign at Odsal following his arrival from Widnes but found his fitness and form to end the season on a high as the Bulls lifted the Championship Shield.

"Ben was excellent and was certainly our best front-rower during that period," said Smith.

"Indeed, he was one of our best players during the Championship Shield. He got our game started strongly for us and we got on the front foot because of it.

"He had a Syndesmosis injury earlier in the year and then a hamstring strain, so I think he missed over 18 games last season.

"Therefore, these Four Nations games are actually a real benefit to him because he hasn't been overworked during the year.

"He finished the season full of running, so this is a great opportunity for him. We will give him a little rest before he joins us for pre-season in early to mid-December before Christmas."

Phil Joseph also helped Wales to qualify for the World Cup, while fellow new Bulls recruit Ross Peltier impressed for Jamaica in their end-of-season encounters.

Smith said: "Phil hasn't played a lot this year, so it will have done him good to be a leader and a key part of his team for Wales.

"Ross has got himself in the best shape he's possibly ever been in and performed strongly for Jamaica in the footage I've seen and the reports I've received."