Huge Super League star released

There have been two major departures this morning with Wigan Warriors star Morgan Smithies leaving Super League for the NRL and the release of a former NRL star by Wakefield Trinity.

The West Yorkshire club are firmly in a rebuilding stage now and have confirmed the release of former NRL star Kevin Proctor.

Wakefield signed the former Melbourne Storm forward and NRL winner after he was sacked by Gold Coast Titans for vaping. The New Zealand international was unable to steer the club away from relegation in 2023.

This morning the club released the following statement: “Wakefield Trinity can confirm the release of Kevin Proctor after his one year stint with the club in the 2023 season just ended.

“Kevin had an illustrious 15 year career in the NRL and represented his country New Zealand on 22 occasions. We thank Kevin for his efforts and wish him and his family all the best for the future.”

This comes after the club confirmed a long term deal for centre Oliver Pratt until the 2026 season. This was despite interest from York City Knights, with the temptation of working with Daryl Powell and Michael Shenton too much for Pratt. Oli, who began his rugby development at Heworth, is a product of Trinity’s youth system, and has shone at scholarship and academy level representing Yorkshire Academy in 2022 and 2023.

Primarily a centre three-quarter the 19 year old can cover both wing and full back positions. Last season he made his Super League debut with the club and also made 11 impressive appearances scoring 6 tries on a loan period at York City Knights in the Championship.

Head Coach Daryl Powell said: “I watched a Wakefield Academy game last season, and not knowing Oliver, picked him as the best player on the field straight away. He’s got all the athletic capabilities to be an outstanding centre in Super League in the future and I’m delighted he has extended his contract to stay with us. I can’t wait to work with him over the next three years see exactly how far he can go.”

The rebuild at Belle Vue is well underway. The club have also signed Jermaine McGillary for next year.