Hanbury signs new Widnes contract

Widnes full-back Rhys Hanbury has commited his future to the Vikings by signing a new three-year deal.

Hanbury, 27, has scored 157 points, including 22 tries, in 36 appearances since joining Widnes from Crusaders in 2012.

He said: “It’s good to get my future settled. It was an easy decision to stay at the club and in the Super League competition, but returning home was definitely another big option for me and my partner. 

“When I first arrived in this country, the original plan was to just give it a go for a couple of seasons at most, but we’ve been over here for four years now, which is a long time to be away from our family and friends. Having said that; we’re still enjoying ourselves and we’re confident that we’ve made the right choice.

Australian Hanbury was out-of-contract at the end of the season and had been linked with a move to Salford. 

Widness coach Denis Betts added: “Rhys has really come on this year and is enjoying his rugby. Before he got injured, he was definitely one of the form players in Super League.

“Being out of contract, we know that he could have chosen a number of clubs to go to.

“Ultimately, the decision was down to him and he chose to remain at Widnes. We’re really pleased that he will be contributing massively towards the future of this club.”

Widnes face Salford on Sunday as part of 2013’s Magic Weekend at the Etihad Stadium.