Warrington Wolves secure talented young full-back

Warrington Wolves have confirmed that young full-back Cai Taylor-Wray has signed a three-year professional contract with the club.

The 18-year-old was given his debut in a narrow defeat to Wigan Warriors in June this year, and Matt Dufty’s injury last month gave him the opportunity to get more game time, with Sam Burgess deciding to play him in the position rather than move Josh Thewlis there.

He scored his first professional try with a remarkable solo effort at Wheldon Road against Castleford Tigers – in just his second Super League start – and was rewarded with the Man of the Match award and another start a week later, in defeat to Leigh Leopards.

He has also played 17 times for the Wolves‘ reserve and academy sides, scoring 17 tries.

Taylor-Wray has also shown his quality on the international field, scoring twice for England Academy against France this year.

His contract will run through 2027, and the club have an option to extend that for a further year.

Warrington Wolves secure Taylor-Wray: how they reacted

Cai Taylor-Wray said, via a club statement: “I’m over the moon. I’ve been here since I was 14 and it’s always been my main focus to play Super League and get a professional contract.

“Sam [Burgess] has been great with me. He’s encouraging and has shown he’s got confidence in me. I want to repay that now.

“I just want to keep doing my job now, show my ability and enjoy playing my rugby.”

Warrington Wolves head coach Sam Burgess added: “Cai is a gifted and exciting young player with a big future ahead of him at this club. His attitude is spot on and he’s shown his abilities when given his opportunity in recent weeks.

“The challenge now is for him to stay focused, work hard, and keep pushing himself to grow his game.”