Cunningham backs Harris

Keiron Cunningham says Iestyn Harris will shine

Wales rugby league star Keiron Cunningham is backing his former team-mate Iestyn Harris to make a successful transition to the international union stage.

But Harris, who has been selected for Wales against Argentina after just 200 minutes of union action, should be allowed to play his own game, Cunningham says.

"As long as he does not get overcoached by Graham Henry there shouldn't be any problem," said the St Helens hooker, who turned down union advances himself in the summer.

"I think they should give him a bit of freedom on how to play, freedom to make his choices. That is how Iestyn plays his game.

Anthony Sullivan was with Keiron Cunningham at St Helens

"As long as he doesn't get too tied down by too many patterns, I think he will go really well.

"He has a natural instinct and, at times, it takes over. I don't think he's sure what's going to happen next.

"Iestyn is a great talent and I think he will play in the three internationals - against Argentina, Tonga and Australia."

Cunningham, who will miss the Great Britain rugby league side's Ashes series with injury, was also delighted that former St Helens winger Anthony Sullivan is on stand-by for Shane Williams.

"With Iestyn, I think there was always the possibility that he was going to get pushed in anyway.

"I'm over the moon that Anthony could be given his chance. He's still in his testimonial year and it was a big move for him going down to Cardiff."

"They should give him a bit of freedom on how to play."

Keiron Cunningham

And Cunningham will be at the Millennium Stadium to watch the match - with no regrets.

"I suppose there might be a thought of 'what might have been' at the back of your mind, but I'm positive I made the right decision to stay at St Helens.

"I'll be a little bit envious, but I'll be cheering them all on and wishing them all the best."