Gareth Widdop says he and Blake Austin will work hard to make their halfback partnership flourish at Warrington.
The England international is predicted to add another dimension to the Cheshire clubs’ attack this season as they aim to end their long wait for a Super League title.
His combination with Great Britain teammate Austin is expected to shape the Wolves season and Widdop admitted he was excited by the prospect.
“Obviously Blake had a great year last year,” said the 30-year-old. “Hopefully he has another great year to come and we’ll be working hard to make things work.
“In any side the halves need to be working well together. I’ve not had much time with him out on the training field yet but I’m looking forward to playing alongside him.
Blake Austin scored 19 tries for Warrington last season. Credit: News Images
“It’s just good to be finally here and experience the competition because, although I’m English, I’ve obviously never played Super League so I’m not really sure what to expect.”
As mentioned, Widdop has yet to play a Super League game and he may have to wait for his debut with a lower-limb injury threatening to keep him out of Thursday’s opener at Wigan.
Remaining tight-lipped on whether he would be fit for the first game, the former NRL winner acknowledged that, injury aside, his move to Warrington couldn’t have gone much better.
“Yeah, it has been a smooth transition,” said Widdop. “I knew the coach already and about six or seven of the players, so that certainly made the move a lot easier and made me feel a lot more comfortable.
“I’m really just looking forward to testing myself because a number of Super League teams have recruited really well and signed some big players.
“I think the league will be even closer this season and I just want to get out on that pitch. I’m really looking forward to it.”
