Bradford Bulls set for major signings

Bradford Bulls confirmed the signing of former Leeds Rhinos and Castleford Tigers forward Daniel Smith from Featherstone Rovers this week.

Smith, 30, is a graduate of the Leeds Rhinos Academy system and has since enjoyed spells in Super League with Wakefield Trinity, Huddersfield Giants and Castleford Tigers most recently.

The Pontefract-born forward this year made a mid-season move to Featherstone Rovers, where he made 18 appearances, scoring twice to help James Ford’s side win the League Leaders’ Shield.

Smith has spoken of his excitement at starting life in the red, amber and black – and reuniting with former team-mates and neighbours!

“I am delighted to get the deal across the line, the club contacted me last week and it has all happened really quick, so I am really happy and excited to get stuck into training and try to get Bradford back into Super League,” said Smith.

“When I spoke to Freddy [Eamon O’Carroll] and Jason [Hirst], they sold the club really well with the things they want to put in place to succeed next year.

“The playing squad is very good and I thought they were the best team I played against last season and with the history of the club, it is one of the biggest clubs in England so I am really happy to be a part of it and I can’t wait.

“I know a few of the lads and have played against them quite a bit, I played Amateur Rugby with Ben Blackmore, Tom Holmes and Joe Arundel live around the corner so I am excited to be back playing with them.

“I am 30 now, having played in Super League for 10 years I have experience so hopefully I can help the younger lads and push the standards to get the best out of everyone.”

Bradford Bulls’ Head Coach Eamon O’Carroll believes Smith’s qualities will compliment the existing players in his ranks – as he becomes the 27th member of his 2024 roster.

“We have been looking to recruit and bring in quality in this position for some time, but it’s important we brought the right person in.

“Once we heard of Dan’s availability, we worked quickly to ensure we got this over the line as we believe Dan will be the perfect fit for us and will compliment the quality we have in our pack.

“Dan is an intelligent footballer who has the ability to disrupt opposition’s defensive lines with his late footwork and his ability to offload. He also has great pass selection, which will certainly add to how we want to play this year. I really feel we have great balance in our pack now.”

He also confirmed further signings with the Bulls linked with more of those who have left Featherstone Rovers: “I’m really happy with how our squad is shaping up, having retained a number of key individuals and bringing in quality with Sam, Mitch, Will and now Dan, and we are still hopeful of adding to our roster before the start of pre-season.”