One of the worst kept secrets of the Super League season has now been confirmed, with St Helens announcing the signing of a Wigan Warriors youngster.
In the club’s fourth signing ahead of next season, Jacob Douglas will make the switch from the Warriors to the Saints, signing a three-year deal at the BrewDog Stadium.
Wigan, of course, have already announced the incomings of two ex-St Helens men, with both Dayon Sambou and Jonny Vaughan linking up with Matt Peet’s side on long-term deals.
The 21-year-old has made eight appearances for the Warriors in total, scoring four tries. In fact, three of those came in the same game, as he crossed for a hat-trick to help his side defeat Salford Red Devils in May.
The speedster has also seen senior game time with loan spells at Whitehaven, Oldham, Bradford and Barrow. In total, he made 13 appearances for those clubs, with two tries coming on debut for Whitehaven back in 2023.
The move is another step towards a new era at the Red Vee, with Paul Rowley wanting to tie down younger players to longer-term deals in the hope that they will develop and become established first team players.
In the past month, Saints have announced new contracts for Jake Burns and Leon Cowen, whilst also promoting five academy talents to the first team squad.
“Exciting times ahead” – New St Helens man eager for new chapter to begin
Speaking to the club after signing, Douglas said: “I’m very excited to be joining Saints! I know this is a great club with a lot of history, and it’s a big club with high expectations and ambitions.
“When I spoke to the Club, it just felt like the perfect place for me to grow at this point in my career, and hopefully be part of some exciting times ahead. I can’t wait to get started.”
Whilst Douglas won’t be first choice straight away, he is certainly eager to show his ability and push for more Super League action as the season progresses.
He said: “There’s some great talent here with the likes of Lewis [Murphy], Owen [Dagnall] and Deon [Cross]. That kind of competition is healthy and will only push me further. We’re all teammates who will bring the best out of one another.”
Commenting on his new coach, Rowley, he added: “The way Paul likes to play the game with an attacking brand of rugby, as a winger, that’s the style we love to play.
“I’ve also heard nothing but good things about Paul from people I trust, so it’s really exciting.”
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