Ex-Warrington Wolves man becomes latest Featherstone Rovers overseas recruit

Former Warrington Wolves man Sitaleki Akauola has joined Featherstone Rovers ahead of the new Championship season. The forward has penned a one-year deal with Featherstone and becomes the latest overseas recruit made by the club, following the additions of Carlos Tuimavave, Toby Boothroyd and Clay Webb.

The West Yorkshire outfit have also announced the signing of Derrell Olpherts this weekend as they underline their ambition and title intentions under James Ford. Akauola joins Featherstone having spent two years in France with Toulouse Olympique. Prior to that move the 32-year-old had a season with Salford Red Devils.

However, the prop will be best known to English rugby league fans for the four years he spent with Warrington, where he made 68 appearances and scored six tries, with a Challenge Cup final win coming in 2019. The former Tonga international represented Wests Tigers and Penrith Panthers before making the move over to England.

“I’m very excited to link up with Featherstone next year,” he told the Featherstone Rovers website. “I’ve loved my time in France but after speaking to Fordy and his vision for the squad and club it was something that really appealed to me and I’m looking forward to coming across and getting started.

“I’m a little bit older now but I still have plenty to give on the field. I feel like I can make a difference, particularly to help some of the club’s talented young forwards and I’m sure we can achieve something special in 2025.”

Head coach Ford, who is entering his second full season as head coach of the Flat Cappers, said: “To be able to add a forward of Sitaleki’s experience and quality to our ranks is huge for the club.

“Sita’s intent of carry and initial contact will be a huge weapon. He’s a quality impact player and I’m confident he’ll be a massive addition to our squad.”