Powell thrilled by code switch

James Gordon

Former Wales rugby union star Andy Powell says he is thrilled to have switched to rugby league with Wigan.

Powell, 31, has signed a two-and-a-half year deal at the DW Stadium, and will begin training at the end of May following his wedding and honeymoon, which come shortly after the end of the rugby union season.

He said: “This is a fantastic opportunity for me and one I am really looking forward to. 

“I have always thought that a move to rugby league could be an option for me at some point in my career and when I learned of Wigan Warriors interest I was excited about the chance to make the switch. 

Wigan Warriors are the biggest name in rugby league; they also have a rich history of Welsh connections over the years and are a huge name in the Principality.

“I am thrilled to be given this chance and with the help of the Wigan Warriors coaching staff, I am looking forward to being able to make the transition between codes. This is a huge new chapter in my Rugby career and I can’t wait to get started.”

Powell, who has won 23 caps for Wales, was linked to a code-switch with Crusaders back in 2010, but the move never materialised.

He is now sure to be in contention for a place the Wales rugby league squad at this year’s World Cup.