A forward whose former clubs include London Broncos and Bradford Bulls has returned to the Championship after signing with a new club on the eve of the 2026 season.
Brad Foster last played in the competition in 2023, ending that season with Bradford Bulls and then appearing to step away from semi-professional rugby league.
It was reported at the time that Foster had left the Bulls to ‘pursue first team playing opportunities elsewhere’, however, he didn’t sign with a Championship or League One club.
Per Foster’s LinkedIn account, he lists himself as an ex-semi pro rugby league player but the S&C coach is now making his playing return, having signed with North Wales Crusaders for the 2026 season.
The Welsh outfit become the sixth side that he has played for in his career at this level with Foster starting out at Doncaster back in 2015, going on to join Dewsbury, Hunslet, before spending a season with each of London Broncos and Bradford Bulls in 2022 and 2023.
Forward returns to Championship after last playing for Bradford Bulls
He now returns to the Championship for the first time since 2023, linking up with last year’s League One champions North Wales.
The Crusaders have beaten both Swinton and Wigan in pre-season but have a bye in the first round of the Championship, meaning fans will have to wait before seeing Foster in action.
Speaking on signing with North Wales and his return to the semi-professional level of the game, Foster said:”I’m really looking forward to getting back on the pitch and playing again.
“Dean and the club are building a strong, competitive squad, so when they contacted me to see if I wanted to be part of it, it was an opportunity I couldn’t turn down. I’m looking forward to getting started and very confident we will have a successful season.”
Head coach Dean Muir added: “To sign someone like Brad will really add to our group. He is a great person whose character fits well and I can’t wait to work with him.
“As a player he is robust, tough and plays good minutes through the middle. He is someone you want to play with. It’s exciting times to be a Crusader and it will only get better.”
On account of their bye in round one and the Challenge Cup being played in a fortnight’s time, North Wales don’t actually have their first home game of the season until the 14th of February when Swinton Lions head to Colwyn Bay.
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