Rugby League Today: Wakefield sign Jai Whitbread, welcome Cornwall & women’s icon

Drew Darbyshire
Jai Whitbread

Wakefield sign Jai Whitbread

Wakefield have signed Australian forward Jai Whitbread. (Yorkshire Live)

The 23-year-old prop ended last season at relegated Super League side Leigh. He made a good impression during his four appearances for the Centurions and will remain in Super League in 2022.

Welcome Cornwall

Professional rugby league will go to Cornwall for the first time after they were given the go ahead to play in League 1 in 2022.

Following Ottawa Aces decision to permanently relocate to the UK, Eric Perez has taken the ‘licence’ they purchased from Hemel Stags to the south west.

They will play at the 4,000-capacity home of Penryn RFC, the Memorial Ground.

Women’s icon

Woman of Steel Jodie Cunningham wants to leave a legacy by encouraging the next generation of girls to pick up a rugby ball.

The St Helens captain spoke exclusively to Love Rugby League about her rugby league journey so far. A standout quote from the interview: “You have young girls now in the stands with Saints shirts on with women’s names on the back, so it is pretty magical.”

Super League free agents

There are 11 Super League players who are without a club for 2022. (Yorkshire Live)

And there are still some big names available – including Nathan Peats and Ryan Hampshire.

Toronto Wolfpack here to stay

Toronto Wolfpack have announced a Canada Cup for 2022.

A short statement on the club’s website read: “After the success of the inaugural 2021 Canada Cup we will be holding a four-team event in May 2022.

“Further details including the teams and schedule will be announced in the coming weeks. Your Toronto Wolfpack is here to stay!”

Warrington recruitment update

Warrington expect no further signings for 2022 (Warrington Guardian)

Last Friday, the Wolves announced the signing of Greece international Billy Magoulias from NRL side Cronulla Sharks. However, no further new additions are expected at the Halliwell Jones Stadium ahead of next season.

Birthdays

Former England, Ireland, Halifax and Sheffield star Johnny Lawless turns 47 today (November 3).

Also celebrating; ex-New Zealand and Samoa forward Frank Pritchard (38), Huddersfield’s new recruit Chris Hill (34) and former Huddersfield forward Larne Patrick (33).

Trivia

Jamie Peacock holds the record for most Super League Grand Final appearances with 11 (2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2011, 2012, 2015).

Features Billy Magoulias