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England captain Sean O'Loughlin has joined in the debate over the mid-season Test in Colorado, arguing that the NRL has a duty to promote the international game.

International goals: Sean O'Loughlin has called on the NRL to do better. Credit:Alex Livesey

Coach Wayne Bennett and his eight NRL-based players have issued a statement confirming their support for the controversial fixture at Denver's Mile High Stadium on June 23 and calling on their clubs to get behind the game against New Zealand.

Although the match has been sanctioned by the Rugby League International Federation and is taking place during the mid-season break, there is clearly more lobbying to be done to win over those NRL clubs who are threatening to not release players.

"I hope all the NRL boys get the nod," O'Loughlin said. "I know the NRL are dragging their feet a bit.