Catalans sign former Bulls hooker

Catalans have signed former Bradford hooker Ian Henderson from NRL side New Zealand Warriors.

Henderson, 27, has agreed a three-year deal with the Dragons after a three-year spell in the NRL where he has made 73 appearances.

Prior to that, he spent three years at Odsal, scoring 13 tries in 70 games, and picking up a Super League Grand Final ring in 2005 and World Club Challenge winners medal in 2006.

Incoming Catalans coach Trent Robinson said: “Ian is a very tough player who must become the leader of the catalan pack next year. His two years experience in the NRL will definitely be a big advantage for himself and the whole squad as well. He is still young, has great capacities and will be the future of our club.”

A Scottish international, Henderson played at the 2008 World Cup and will replace Dragons captain Casey McGuire in the hooking role, with the Australian set to return home after Catalans’ final league game next week.

Henderson is Robinson’s third recruit for next season, following the signing of Toulouse three-quarter Vincent Duport and Newcastle half-back Scott Dureau.