Bradford Bulls have announced the arrival of former NRL hooker James Segeyaro on a deal until the end of the season – having fought off stiff competition for his signature.
The 32-year-old made his senior debut in the NRL in 2011, for North Queensland Cowboys before a four-year stint at Penrith Panthers.
Segeyaro featured 10 times for Leeds Rhinos throughout a spell in 2016 before moving back down under, representing Cronulla Sharks, Brisbane Broncos and Manly Sea Eagles.
The former PNG star most recently plied his trade in France for Lezignan but will now don the red, amber and black of Bradford – with thanks to the Bradford Bulls Squad Booster Association for their support.
James Segeyaro said:
“To the Bradford Bulls community, I’m excited to be a part of this team and to have the honour of representing you on the field this season. I know that this team has a rich history of success, and I’m committed to doing everything I can to help us win.
“I won’t make any big promises, but I will give you my word that I’m going to work hard every day to improve my game, contribute to the team’s success and earn your trust.
Thank you for your continued support, and I look forward to seeing you at the games. Go the Bulls!”
James’ paperwork came through yesterday and he is already in the country – ahead of linking up with his new team-mates this week in training.
Bulls CEO Jason Hirst said:
“The club has worked extremely hard behind the scenes, over a number of months, to not only make this signing, but to obtain a visa and arrange and implement all the logistical requirements.
“We have signed James despite fierce competition from other clubs and to bring in a player of his undoubted pedigree, with over 150 NRL matches under his belt, from now until the end of the season, is testament to our on-field ambition.
“Having personally spoken to James at length, on numerous occasions, his desire to get to the UK and play for Bradford has consistently shone through. He is, without doubt, chomping at the bit to pull on our famous red, amber and black jersey.
“His signing gives us increased competition for places, on field impetus, further leadership and experience and real go forward from Dummy Half and bodes well for us achieving a Top 4 finish and a home fixture in the end of season play-off series.
“A special thanks goes to Squad Booster for their support in helping make this signing happen.”
The club have also provided an update on Jason Baitieri – who penned a deal last month.
“On the very day we received Jason’s visa clearance, he picked up an injury, which was obviously extremely bad luck for him and us. Having now had the injury assessed and commenced his rehabilitation, Jason and we remain hopeful that he’ll soon be back to full fitness, to enable him to join us in the near future.
“Given Jason’s undoubted determination, professionalism and desire to play for Bradford Bulls, we anticipate that being next month. We remain in regular contact with him and I will ensure that we will keep our loyal and appreciated supporters up to date with any significant updates, with regard to his injury, as and when we receive them.”
