World Cup star explains why he joined Championship club as he reveals the player who was key

Halifax Panthers have pulled off a major coup in signing Rugby League World Cup star Jake Maizen after he scored a hat-trick for Italy in their opening game of the tournament.

He had definite quality and versatility to a strong squad which already has dreams of promotion in 2023 after a second consecutive third place finish in 2022.

He, alongside former Wigan Warriors target Lachlan Walmsley, could give Italy the firepower needed to go on and secure Super League status.

Maizen has explained the move on the club website revealing the player who was key to his decision:

“I’m stoked to be here at Halifax”, said Maizen. “I can’t wait to rip in with the boys and I’m excited as. It’s the first time I’ve been to The Shay, it’s nice, it’s big and it’s cold (laughs). But yeah, I’ve seen and heard stories about how crazy the fans are here and I can’t wait to experience it.”

“Before I came to the UK for the World Cup, I had it in the back of my mind that playing in England was something that I’d like to do. Playing with Kingy (Ryan King) too over there, I heard a lot of stories about the club and that obviously encouraged me to come here as well.”

“I feel I’m a bit of a gamebreaker. I don’t mind getting in, having a few carries and I’m told I don’t shut up so that’s something else I bring (laughs). I’ll play anywhere the team needs me, I’ve played centre recently so I would probably say that’s my preferred position but I can play anywhere across the back line so I’m not too stressed. It’s an opportunity for me. I’ll take it as it comes and  hopefully, I can stay here for as long as they’ll take me but yeah, I’ll just take it a year at a time.”