Just under three weeks ago Keighley Cougars announced the arrival of Australian Josh Martin as one of their new signings, however three days into 2024 the club have confirmed his departure.
Martin had been handed the number 24 shirt for the upcoming campaign as Keighley look to try and return to the Championship, however the Australian has left after not having played a game for the club.
The Australian was unable to play in the Boxing Day clash against Oldham, in which the Cougars were handily beaten 46-10, with Martin ruled out due to a registration issue back in Australia.
Just a week on from that huge loss and the club have confirmed that Martin has returned to Australia with the club terminating his contract to facilitate his release.
That news was shared via a statement shared on the club website.
It read: “Keighley Cougars are disappointed to announce Josh Martin has returned to Australia following his two and a half week stint with the club.
“Josh cited homesickness and personal reasons for his return to Australia and the club were happy to accommodate a release from his contract.”
Keighley’s Director of Rugby, former Castleford Tigers’ star Jake Webster said “Although Josh’s time at the club was extremely short and we are disappointed to lose a player, we do wish him well and hope he can find a space where he can get the required support he needs from his family at this time.”
Martin had previously played in England for Whitehaven during the 2022 season in which he starred 19 times, but the utility back cuts short his second stint in England due to personal reasons.
All at Serious About Rugby League wish Josh the very best in his return home.
As for the Cougars it looks set to be a difficult season if their Boxing Day defeat to promotion rivals Oldham is anything to go by, Sean Long’s side putting Keighley to the sword.
Keighley suffered relegation from the Championship in their maiden campaign in the division, having been promoted after an invincible season in League One in 2022.
They’ll now rebuild with key signings Brandon Pickersgill at full-back as one of the club’s stars having arrived from Featherstone Rovers on a three year deal.
