Questions raised about Brad Dwyer’s future at Warrington Wolves after Sam Powell transfer

Warrington Wolves have brought back former Leeds Rhinos and Hull FC hooker Brad Dwyer back to the club in 2024 but despite this they have drafted in another hooker in the shape of Wigan Warriors veteran Sam Powell.

This has raised questions about Dwyer’s future at the club after he was strangely only given the number 23 shirt for the 2024 season despite expectations he would be inside the first 17.

There have been rumours that Dwyer will be allowed to leave the club before making an appearance for the club on his return with talk that he could join Salford Red Devils as a replacement for Leeds Rhinos bound Andy Ackers.

Powell’s move was confirmed last night (Friday 10th November) with Wigan paying tribute to their home grown talent.

Powell made a try-scoring debut for Wigan against Hull FC in August 2012, and went on to play 272 games for the Club.

He joined the Club aged 16 from Wigan St Patrick’s ARLFC after spending four successful years in the Club’s Scholarship and Academy systems, and played a starring role in the 2011 Academy Grand Final win over Warrington.

Sam developed into a strong leader on and off the field, becoming a key member of Wigan’s Leadership Group and celebrated his Testimonial Year in 2023.

The 31-year-old leaves Wigan as a three-time Grand Final winner, also winning a World Club Challenge and three League Leaders’ Shields.

Head Coach Matt Peet said: “Sam Powell leaves Wigan having given his all every second of every day. As a leader at the Club, he has made our culture and everyone around him better.”

Peet added: “I feel personally privileged to have worked with him. We wish him and his family all the best on and off the rugby field.”

Chief Executive, Kris Radlinski said: “Sam can take immense pride in his accomplishments at the Club.

“Throughout his career at Wigan, he has exhibited unwavering dedication, consistently elevating our standards for numerous years.”

Radlinski added: “His time here has not only been marked by professional success but has also fostered enduring friendships that will last a lifetime. Sam, along with his young family, will always find our door open to them.“