Wakefield confirm signing of Australian forward Jai Whitbread
Wakefield have signed Australian forward Jai Whitbread on a one-year deal, with the option for a second.
The 23-year-old prop made 30 appearances for Gold Coast Titans in the NRL between 2018-21. Additionally, he joined Leigh towards the end of last season, playing four games for the Centurions.
On his move to Wakefield, Whitbread said: “It’s been unreal so far, the lads have been very welcoming and I’m enjoying being in training.
“My time at Leigh has given me an insight into what I can expect playing in Super League and I’m really looking forward to it.
“It’s a high-paced game, there are plenty of offloads and the ball is always in play. It’s a really enjoyable brand of footy to play and watch so I’m just ready to get ripped in now and can’t wait for it.”
Wakefield coach delighted to secure Jai Whitbread services
Wakefield coach Willie Poching said: “It’s not often you get someone of Jai’s NRL experience and age on our doorstep.
“So, when the chance came to meet and speak to him, I was taken by his demeanour, size and his will to keep developing and have a big impact on our team and club.
“He is a good young man, who as a player has a great skill set for a big fella. He will complement and enhance the style we want to implement next season.”
WAKEFIELD: The Wimbledon of Super League
Corey Hall leaves Leeds for Wakefield return
Wakefield have signed young centre Corey Hall from Leeds.
Hall, 19, was previously with Trinity’s scholarship programme up until 2018. And then he left Wakefield to go to Wigan, before moving to Leeds ahead of the 2020 season.
Hall was part of the England Academy squad in 2019 and joined the Rhinos on a three-year deal.
However, he spent time on loan with York in 2021 after making just four appearances for Leeds.
Hall said: “I’m very excited to be back where I first started my professional career.
“I really appreciate being given the opportunity to come back and develop as a player under the coaching staff and I look forward to giving 100% in pre-season.
“I strongly believe that I have a good opportunity and that will be my driving force, to make sure I get the chance off Willie.”
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