Warrington land Featherstone forward James Harrison for 2022

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Warrington have signed highly-rated Championship forward James Harrison from Featherstone for 2022.

The 24-year-old son of former Great Britain forward Karl Harrison, who had a spell on loan to Leeds in 2020, will join the Wolves on a two-year contract.

Harrison scored a try to help Featherstone win the 1895 Cup against York at Wembley a fortnight ago, and has emerged as a standout forward in the Championship.

Warrington chief executive Karl Fitzpatrick said: “In recruiting James I know that we’ve added one of the Championship’s most consistent and stand-out forwards to our pack for next season onwards.

“He’s overcome adversity to get to where he is in his career and deserves his opportunity now to showcase what he can do in Super League.

“He has all the right attributes to bolster our forwards options and will add value to our squad for 2022.”

Harrison said: “I’m buzzing to be joining Warrington next season.

“I’ve always wanted to be a Super League player so to get the chance at a club like Warrington is a dream come true.

“I definitely feel I’m ready and the time is right to make this next step up in my career. I consider myself a real hard-working player and I back myself to play big minutes.

“I can’t wait to meet the fans. It’s a massive stadium at the Halliwell Jones and I’m looking forward to playing there next season. I’m really excited for what’s to come.”

Meanwhile, Leeds have confirmed the signing of half-back Blake Austin from Warrington on a one-year contract for the 2022 season.

The 30-year-old will join the Rhinos at the end of the season and becomes their third new signing for 2022 following on from St Helens forward James Bentley and Huddersfield half-back Aidan Sezer.

Austin has scored 32 tries in 62 appearances for Warrington since arriving at the club in 2019.

Super League Featherstone Rovers