Wigan Warriors have confirmed that one of their senior players will depart the club at the end of the current Super League season.
Matt Peet’s side will be preparing for the semi-final against Leigh Leopards tomorrow night but that’s not stopped them making the announcement of a player exit.
That player is Ryan Hampshire who has had two spells with the current Super League champions, making a total of 42 appearances across those two periods.
His most recent spell with Wigan Warriors began ahead of the 2023 season with Hampshire re-signing after six seasons away from the club, most notably his three seasons with Wakefield Trinity.
In his second spell at the club, he has made twelve appearances, losing just once. That came in his final game, the Round 21 defeat against Leeds Rhinos in which Hampshire unfortunately had to be hooked before half time after breaking his arm.
Wigan Warriors released a short statement confirming his exit.
Wigan Warriors confirm Ryan Hampshire exit
A statement posted to the club website read: “Ryan Hampshire will leave Wigan Warriors following the conclusion of the 2024 Betfred Super League season.
“Hampshire joined the Club for a second spell at the beginning of the 2023 season to provide cover across a number of playing positions, accumulating 42 appearances over both spells, picking up back-to-back League Leaders Shields with the Warriors in 2023 and 2024.
“Unfortunately, Ryan sustained a broken arm in his most recent game against Leeds Rhinos, a game that would be his only defeat since rejoining the Club.”
Head Coach Matt Peet said: “We all wish Ryan all the best for the future. He has made an important contribution to the team over the last two season both on the field in some important games, in practice and around the group on a daily basis.
“Personally, he is a player I have worked with over a number of years and will always have a special connection with. I look forward to seeing him flourish in whatever he does next and he will always be a friend to the Club.”
With recent confirmation that Mike Cooper would retire on medical grounds, it means that just Willie Isa is the only player with uncertainty over his future.