World Cup not the basis for code switch, claims Burgess

Sam Burgess says his high-profile, six-figure switch of rugby codes was based on "the challenge" that will await him — and not next year’s World Cup in England.

Burgess ended his stellar rugby league career by guiding the Russell Crowe-owned South Sydney Rabbitohs to a stunning NRL Grand final victory over Canterbury Bulldogs earlier this month.

The 25-year-old played almost the entire game with a fractured cheekbone and eye socket — injuries that are now set to delay his union debut probably until December.