Former Super League halfback signs new contract with Championship club as “unfinished business” statement made

After a brilliant start to the season, a former Super League halfback has agreed a new deal to extend his time with a promotion-chasing side.

Following  their promotion from League 1 at the end of last season, Oldham have thrived in the second division, and currently sit fourth in the league. Those performances have seen one of their star players rewarded with a new contract that will keep him at the club for at least another year.

When Josh Drinkwater’s exit from Warrington Wolves played out at the end of last season, many thought his time in the UK would be over. However, he has found a new lease of life since moving to the Roughyeds, and has been in brilliant form this year, scoring eight tries in 17 appearances and having his hand in many more. 

The 32-year-old initially signed a one-year deal with Sean Long’s side, but after a blistering start to the season, he has penned a new contract that will keep him at the club until the end of 2026.

Oldham are an ambitious club that hold aspirations of Super League and Drinkwater hopes the new contract will see him achieve silverware before he heads back down under. 

Former Super League man Josh Drinkwater signs new contract

Speaking to Oldham’s social media channels, he said: “I don’t want to be going home with unfinished business, and I wouldn’t have signed for the club in the first place if it wasn’t ambitious. I’m at the stage in my career that I couldn’t do that.” 

He added: “I believe we have every chance of winning the competition this year. We are definitely capable but there are a few good teams, and we still have a little bit to work on.” 

Toulouse currently top the Championship table, with Bradford Bulls and York Knights the only other teams ahead of Oldham. 

Another reason for him to stay at the club was the influence of chairman, Bill Quinn, and managing director, Mike Ford. 

Drinkwater said: “Knowing what’s in the works and what Bill and Mike want to achieve, and how far they want to get – to be a part of that for another 12 months was a pretty easy decision. I know what they are trying to do and the players they are trying to bring in, and the end goal, so to be a part of that will be great.”