St George confirm Graham release

St George Illawarra Dragons have officially confirmed the release of England and Great Britain prop James Graham, ahead of his imminent return to St Helens.

Saints confirmed earlier this week that, following media reports in Australia, the 34-year-old would be re-joining the club for the remainder of 2020, with the Dragons now officially announcing his release.

Graham made 51 appearances for St George, after signing from Canterbury Bulldogs in 2018.

“I’m definitely leaving with a heavy heart, this club and the people involved have done so much for me over the past two and a half years,” Graham told the Dragons’ official club website.

“It wasn’t an easy decision, but the opportunity to return and play for the club I’ve supported since I was eight and whose system I was in from 11 was the right thing for me to pursue as I reach the end of my career.

“I’m very grateful for the club, the board and the coach for appreciating my perspective about returning to St Helens. I’d run to the edge of the earth for the coach, staff and playing group at the Dragons. They will have a special place in my heart forever.”