Bailey lands new Wigan deal

Wigan back-rower and former Australian test player Phil Bailey has agreed a new one-year deal at the DW Stadium.

Bailey, 29, joined the club in 2007 on a three-year deal, and has made 82 appearances and scored 15 tries in that time.

After achilles surgery, Bailey has joined his team-mates for pre-season training and is now re-classified as federation trained, but remains a quota player.

Bailey said: “I am delighted to have signed a new contract having thoroughly enjoyed my time so far with the Warriors. The Club have been great to me, I love the town and the fans have been fantastic. I was really disappointed to miss the end of last season with an Achilles injury but I am well on the road to recovery now and can’t wait to be part of the squad for the new season.”

Bailey originally joined the Warriors as a centre, but made the successful switch to the second-row under Brian Noble. He has experience in the NRL with Manly, Northern Eagles and Cronulla, for whom he made more than 100 appearances.

Wigan Chairman Ian Lenaghan said: “We are pleased to have Phil with us for next season. He is a player who adds vital experience and maturity – something which Michael Maguire values with our relatively young squad – and he will play a major part in helping the younger players at the Club develop their game. The deal is financially beneficial to the Club.”

Bailey played three tests for Australia in 2003, scoring two tries, and has also played three times for New South Wales State of Origin.

Head Coach Maguire said: “Phil is a great player to have in your squad and I am pleased he is with us for 2010 and possibly beyond. He is whole-hearted and committed and has a great work ethic.”