Below is a round-up of all the latest news from the world of rugby league over the last 24 hours.
Josh Griffin to Wakefield
Back rower Josh Griffin has secure a heroic homecoming as his move to boyhood club Wakefield Trinity from Hull FC has now been confirmed. Speaking on his move to Belle Vue, Griffin said: “Wakefield was the obvious choice for me, I was lucky enough to make my first team debut there at 17. My goals are to help the club and team out in any way that I can, I will help prepare the boys for the upcoming games.”
Blake Austin contract update
Blake Austin has today expressed his desire to stay at Headingley for the foreseeable future. Speaking to Sky Sports, the halfback said: “the last I heard is that I am in his thoughts so hopefully I can continue to impress. My preference is to stay at Leeds, I played in a Grand Final six months ago and I want to keep performing in front of the South Stand.” The Australian playmaker has been in great form of late, and his form has been rewarded as he has been named Super League player of the month for June.
Wigan tie down promising youngster
Wigan Warriors have secured the services of promising young hooker Brad O’Neill on a new contract, which will see him stay at the DW until 2027. Speaking on his new deal, O’Neill said: “I’m really happy to have signed for four years at the Club, I’m really excited about the future and to work with Matt. I’ve been at the club a long time already and there’s no other place I’d want to be.” Wigan now have some strong competition at hooker, with O’Neill signing a long term deal, as well as Kruise Leeming joining at the end of the season.
Super League target joins new NRL club
NRL Prop Matt Lodge has been heavily linked with a move to Super League, with Leeds and Warrington leading the charge to secure his services. However, in a twist of fate he has signed a deal to join Manly Sea Eagles for the rest of the 2023 NRL season.
Super League team news
It’s another bumper week in Super League, with massive matches at both ends of the tables. St Helens welcome Catalans tomorrow night in the first game of the weekend. On Friday, Huddersfield take on Wakefield, Leeds face Hull KR and Wigan play Warrington. The team news is now out for these four matches. Elsewhere this weekend, Hull FC welcome Castleford to the MKM on Saturday, and wrapping off the weekends action are Salford as they do battle with Leigh.
GoFundMe set up to help Championship club
A concerned fan has set up a GoFundMe page to raise crucial funds to help support Championship side Whitehaven. The club have now shared this on their social media pages, saying: “to fans of Whitehaven Rugby League and the wider rugby league family, we need your help”. At the time of writing, this has helped raise over £7000 for the club. If you wish to donate to the GoFundMe, the link is available here.
Origin series wrapped up
New South Wales avoided a whitewash in this years Origin series as they beat Queensland 24-10 in Sydney. Tries from Blues debutant Bradman Best proved crucial in their victory, however the series had already been decided after Queensland won the first two matches in the series.
Catalans Dragons
Ex-Super League forward set to join new club after being sacked
