Richard Beaumont joins Rochdale on loan
Leigh Centurionshave confirmed that prop Richard Beaumont has joined Rochdale Hornets on a rolling monthly loan deal.
The 27-year-old joined the Centurions in the close season, after being released from his contract at St Helens.
Prior to that, he made his Super League debut in 2011 for Hull KR. He has previously played four games for Rochdale on dual registration from St Helens.
He has not featured for Leigh so far this season, but it likely to play for the Hornet in the Challenge Cup against Swinton at the weekend.
“I am delighted Richard has been able to overcome his family issues and regain contact with me,”said Leigh head of rugby Derek Beaumont.
“He has experienced some difficult issues which are not for discussion here and I have a sense of understanding of the situation and how Richard chose to deal with it.
“The fact remains he is a big dominant forward who is Super League quality and has age on his side.
“Obviously Richard has missed the preseason and is behind where we would like him to be.
“He goes to Rochdale who have a good coach in Ian Talbot and an environment Richard is familiar with from his time dual registered there from Saints.
“The loan spell will provide Richard the opportunity to make his way back into Paul Rowley’s plans for the first-team and we are hopeful he can come and give us a shot in the arm before the business end of the season.
“I am confident he will grasp the opportunity with both hands and quickly gain everyone’s respect. Richard will be available for Rochdale’s fixture on Sunday against Swinton in Challenge Cup.”
Leigh coach Paul Rowley was optimistic that Beaumont would thrive at Rochdale, and would soon be back in contention at the Centurions.
“Richie will be going on loan to Rochdale with the intention of getting his career back on track and re-engaging with the routine and commitment required to succeed,” he said.
“I am keen to see not if, but how long it will take him to rediscover his best form and force his way back into our environment here at Leigh where the door has always remained open for his return.”
Rochdale Hornets chief executive Ryan Bradley added
“We are delighted to acquire a player of Richies quality to give us a boost ahead of what is going to be a hard fought title push,” he said.
“Richie is eager to impress and has a point to prove, much like a few members of our squad.
“I’d like to thank Derek Beaumont and Paul Rowley at Leigh for there assistance in getting the deal done and I’m sure this move will benefit Hornets, Richard Beaumont and Leigh Centurions.”