Bradford Bulls sign Super League forward

Bradford Bulls have signed Huddersfield Giants forward Chester Butler.

Welsh international, 26-year-old Butler has been at the Giants since 2019 having enjoyed three years at Betfred Championship outfit Halifax Panthers.

An exciting back row talent, Butler featured in both Huddersfield’s trial matches – against Dewsbury Rams and Hull KR – and will be a part of Mark Dunning’s side to take to the field against Midlands Hurricanes tomorrow.

Bradford boss John Kear has spoken of his delight at having Butler on board in 2022 – believing he has ‘all the physical attributes’ required.

“I am delighted to have Chester on board – he has suffered a horrendous couple of years since joining Huddersfield as an exciting, young back rower prospect but has been struck down by injury but that has now cleared,” said Kear, who is sponsored by HF Wealth.

“He played in the two trial games for Huddersfield and we felt we could help him, he could help us and similarly it can help Huddersfield Giants so that’s how the move has come about.

“Chester was showing signs of being a really good back rower – he is the grandson of the great Colin Dixon – he was a real handful at Halifax and he has been so at Wales too.

“He is a young player with lots of potential with a good frame, with good pace he has all the physical attributes now it is about getting him back onto the field.

“People might find it surprising we signed a Super League player on loan and his first game will be in the Reserves but that is in part after chatting to him and Huddersfield.

“He just needs game minutes and the more he gets the better he’ll be and he wanted to play as soon as possible – I didn’t think it would be fair to chuck him in for Leigh so that is why he is trotting out tomorrow and should he come through that in flying colours he will have his hand up for Barrow the week after.”