RL Today: Leeds suffer Gildart setback & Fijian heads to Championship

Gildart setback

Leeds have suffered a setback to their hopes of signing Oliver Gildart, with NRL side Wests Tigers changing their stance. (Leeds Live)

It was reported earlier in the week by Leeds Live that the Rhinos were set to bring in England international Gildart for the remainder of the season. However, Leeds Live report that the Tigers have put the brakes on a UK return.

In other Wests Tigers news, former Hull KR and Widnes boss Tim Sheens was appointed as their new head coach yesterday.

Jamaica star heads to Hunslet

League 1 club Hunslet have signed Jamaica international Ross Peltier on loan from Championship side Dewsbury on loan for the rest of the season.

Hunslet coach Alan Kilshaw said: “Ross is a destructive player who has played really well in the Championship this season and in previous years. He’s a big unit and a handful for defenders. I’m confident he will give us the strong impact we want, and earn himself a World Cup place come October.”

Hull loan out youngster

Championship side Whitehaven have re-signed Marcus Walker from Hull FC on loan for the rest of the season.

The young centre enjoyed a loan spell with Haven earlier this season, making six appearances.

Whitehaven coach Jonty Gorley said: “With the injuries to a number of outside backs the last couple games, I thought it necessary to bring in a centre to bolster the squad. Marcus was my first option.”

Halifax stalwart to retire

Halifax forward Ed Barber will hang up his boots at the end of the season.

The 32-year-old has made more than 130 appearances for the Panthers across eight seasons.

Barber said: “I’ve absolutely loved my time at Halifax and have had the best eight years of my career here. I never expected to play nearly 150 games for my hometown club, creating some great memories that I will never forget.”

Meanwhile, the Panthers have announced that Jamaica international James Woodburn-Hall has signed a new two-year deal with the club.

Fijian prop makes Championship move

Whitehaven have signed Fijian front-rower Joe Drodolagi from French side Carcassonne on a month’s trial.

He has previously played in the New South Wales Cup in Australia. But he has most recently been playing for Carcassonne in the French Elite 1 Championship.

How Italy could line-up at the World Cup

We’re creating how each nation could line-up ahead of the World Cup, in collaboration with He Can Play For. This week, it’s Italy!

The Azzurri have been drawn in a tough group alongside Australia, Fiji and Scotland. However, they have a wealth of NRL and Super League experience in their ranks and could cause an upset.

THE ITALIAN JOB: How Italy could line-up at the World Cup

Birthdays

Former England and Brisbane Broncos centre Jack Reed turns 34 today (July 15).

Also celebrating; former Hull KR an Crusaders prop David Tangata-Toa (41), Warrington forward Ben Currie (28) and St Helens youngster Daniel Hill (21).

Trivia

Tonga and St Helens centre Konrad Hurrell needs just one appearance for 200 for his career.

PODCAST: Adrian Morley on enforcer Morgan Knowles, disciplinary tightropes & NRL memories

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