Southernwood makes Hunslet switch

Hunslet have signed Batley half-back Cain Southernwood on a 12-month deal.

Southernwood, 25, has played more than 100 games for Whitehaven and the Bulldogs at Championship.

A product of the Wakefield academy system, he played in Super League for Bradford.

Hunslet coach Gary Thornton said: “This is a major coup for us, to have signed a player with Cain’s quality and experience.

“We’ve fought off a couple of Championship clubs and other League 1 clubs to get his signature, and I’m delighted he has chosen us.

“We’ve been trying to get the deal done as soon as we were alerted of his availability, and to finally get him over the line is fantastic news.”

Southernwood is the son of former Hunslet player Graham.

He said: “I am really excited to be joining Hunslet. It will be a new challenge for me dropping down into League 1 next season but one I’m relishing.”

“I can’t wait to meet the staff and players when we report back for pre-season and I’m hoping we can achieve something special next season as a group.

“My dad (Graham Southernwood) played at Hunslet back in the 90’s and had nothing but positive things to say about the club and the supporters and when the opportunity came up to join, it was a no brainer.”