In this weeks wrap, Leeds make a marquee move, Warrington add depth and KR make key moves.
Marque Merrin joins Leeds
David Furner has made his first big move as Leeds Head Coach, signing former Kangaroo international, Trent Merrin. The 29-year-old forward, has joined the Rhinos from Penrith Panthers on a four-year deal.
Becoming the Rhinos fifth signing in the off-season, Trent Merrin is Leeds second and final Marquee signing of the season, joining Konrad Hurrell at the club. With over 200 games in the NRL, experience is something that Merrin has in abundance. His big game plays will be key for the former champions next season. Leeds director of rugby, Kevin Sinfield, had this to say about the signing. “We are delighted to have signed Trent and look forward to welcoming him to the Rhinos club. He is an international class forward who was a regular last season for Penrith Panthers in the NRL. He has an outstanding reputation in Australia for his leadership within a group and is someone who has played for a decade at the highest level of the game.”
Mamo looks for a fresh start
Jake Mamo has signed for Warrington Wolves on a one year deal. The 24-year-old left Huddersfield after two season, that were marred by injuries. Playing 25 times for the Giants, and scoring 17 tries in that period, Mamo showed in parts, why he has signed for the Wolves.
Commenting on the singing, Wire head coach, Steve Price had this to say, “I’ve watched Jake closely for a number of years over in the NRL and also in the Super League at Huddersfield. He has a lot of quality attributes and brings a lot of enthusiasm. He competes really hard and can play in a number of positions – in a centre, wing, fullback type role. He’s going to be a great acquisition for our footy club.”
Double delight for Hull KR
Its been a busy week in the East of Hull, with two big names moving to the Robins. Firstly, is the signing of former NRL Grand Final winner, Kane Linnett, who has signed from North Queensland on a three-year deal. Joining Linnett at the Robins is Mitch Garbutt, the two-time Super league Grand Final winner, joins from Leeds also on a three-year deal.
Firstly with Kane Linnett, the 29-year-old has over 150 NRL games under his belt, the second rower will look to bring experience into a young KR side. Scoring over 50 tries in a nine-year career, the Scotland international had this to say about his move to the East of Hull, “I always wanted to finish my career in the Super League, I’m really excited to get over there and meet a new bunch of boys, get settled in, work hard and hopefully have a good year.”
Joining eight time Grand Final winner, and former Leeds team-mate Danny McGuire at KR, is Mitch Garbutt. The 29-year-old, who played for Melbourne, before joining Leeds in 2015, has a wealth of experience that KR will be looking to use. His no-nonsense approach to the game is something that could add a ruthless streak to an already tough pack. Add the addition of Linnett, and KR could be well on their way to an impressive season. Head Coach, Tim Sheens had this to say about the signing, “Mitch brings a wealth of experience to our team and joins what is now an impressive and experienced front row. When a player of Mitch’s ability becomes available it’s important to move quickly to tie them down.”
Devils snap up Dudson
Gil Dudson has joined Salford Red Devils on a two-year deal from Widnes. The 28-year-old joins former Viking Greg Burke at the A.J. Bell Stadium. The Welsh international, who started at North Wales, has over 150 club appearances to his name, and will be looking bring that experience to the Red Devils. Ian Watson, Salford’s Head coach, had this to say about the signing, “He has a good skill level but more importantly as a front-rower he has an aggression and competitive attitude to win his battles which is what we need in our middles. I know Gil will come in and add to the ‘team first’ mentality that we have here at Salford Red Devils.”
