Hanbury in high demand

Correspondent

Widnes might have a fight on their hands to keep in-form fullback Rhys Hanbury with the Australian attracting interest from rival Super League clubs.

Hanbury, who is off contract at the end of this season, joined the Vikings in 2012 from the Crusaders.

The 30-year old has been impressive this year as Widnes have romped to five wins from their first six games. Hanbury has scored four tries and kicked 28 goals, making him the top kicker in Super League.

He has set up three tries and is averaging 4.5 tackle busts, 1.3 clean breaks, and 14.5 carries per game. He has also made 731 metries in 2016, the second most in the competition behind Warrington fullback Matt Russell.

Love Rugby Leagye understands Hanbury is keen to remain in Super League and not return to Australia, where he has played in the NRL for South Sydney and Wests Tigers.

He has played in England for seven years and racked up 86 tries, averaging a try every two games in Super League. While primarily used at fullback at Widnes, Hanbury can also play in the halves at scrum-half and stand-off.

Hanbury’s manager, Clinton Schifcofske, said the Vikings fullback is in strong demand in Super League.

“We have interest in Rhys with several offers in the Super League for the 2017 season,” Schifcofske, said.

“Which is understandable as he is one of the top fullbacks in the game and has been in great form for the past few years.

“Rhys is happy and really enjoying himself in the UK and playing at Widnes.

“He has been a key part of Denis Betts’ side for the past few seasons and at 30 has plenty left in him to give.”