Baldwinson and Tonks return to Super League with Bradford

Bradford have signed Jordan Baldwinson and Mason Tonks until the end of the season, after the pair re-joined Leeds from New Zealand Warriors.

The 19-year-olds made the move to the NRL last year, playing in pre-season games for the Warriors, and also made a handful of Holden National Youth Cup appearance.

Loose forward Baldwinson and back-rower Tonks add to the Bulls’ injury-hit squad, and come as a timely boost to coach Francis Cummins ahead of the upcoming Magic Weekend.

He said: “This is a fantastic opportunity for both Jordan and Mason and it is also a fantastic opportunity for us as a club.

“Jordan has captained his country at youth level and Mason is hugely talented. I saw a fair bit of them while they were at Leeds and was very impressed by them.

“They now have a great chance to make a name for themselves in Super League, by putting down a marker for us in the vital weeks and months ahead.

“There had been talk of them joining the club earlier in the week but, despite reports this morning, contracts have only just been signed and agreed.”

Cummins has admitted his frustration in recent weeks over recruitment, with the belief that some clubs were reluctant to loan players out for the minimum month required.

Baldwinson added: “I have had a great time here and it has been brilliant coming out to live in New Zealand, but I am really excited about going home to play in the Super League.”

Tonks said: “I have loved my time with the lads and have really enjoyed the experience of living here, but I am also looking forward to the chance to further my career.”

The pair are to arrive in the UK over the weekend and will come into contention for the Bulls’ Saturday May 24 trip to Catalan Dragons.