Featherstone Rovers sign former St Helens Grand Final winner

Featherstone Rovers have completed a surprising deal for a Super League prop forward following the release of Kyle Trout.

A short-term loan deal has been struck for Jack Ashworth from Betfred Super League side, Huddersfield Giants.  

Ashworth, who came through the St Helens system, was part of Saints’ Grand Final winning side against Salford in 2019, but he joined Huddersfield in 2021 and has featured regularly for the Giants throughout the 2022 campaign. 

The 106kg forward can play at either prop or second row and will join up with Brian McDermott’s squad on Wednesday.

Speaking of Ashworth’s signing, McDermott commented: “We’ve recognised the need to bolster our pack with injuries having taken their toll in recent weeks.  Jack is a strong ball carrier and defender and will fit into our system well. “ 

Ashworth’s deal is initially short term with a view to extending. 

Meanwhile, the West Yorkshire club has confirmed that Kyle Trout left the club immediately.

Featherstone released a statement saying: “The Club can confirm that Kyle Trout has agreed to leave the Club with immediate effect. Despite Kyle’s best efforts, he has unfortunately been unable to maintain a starting position in what is a very strong and squad, it was therefore agreed by both parties that Kyle kickstarts his career elsewhere. We wish Kyle all the very best for the future.”

The 30-year-old previously played for Featherstone on dual registration terms in 2014 and 2015 when he was with Wakefield Trinity, and went on to sign a permanent deal.

After starting out at Wakefield, Trout had two spells at Dewsbury Rams and a short spell at Sheffield Eagles.

His form at Dewsbury earned a return to Super League with Hull KR in 2019, though he was released at the end of 2020 and signed for French side Limoux Grizzlies.

Trout returned to England on a loan deal with the Newcastle Thunder before linking up once more with Rovers.

It has not been revealed where Trout’s next destination will be, but he has a wealth of Championship experience.