Warriors sign Gelling
The Warriors have confirmed the signing of centre Anthony Gelling on a one-year contract after he was given an early release by Wigan Warriors.
Gelling, 27, has been training with the Warriors this week after spending the last six seasons in the English Super League with Wigan.
The Cook Islands international, who was born in Auckland, returns to New Zealand having previously played for the Auckland Vulcans in the New South Wales Cup and the Sydney Roosters in the NRL’s under-20s competition.
Gelling revealed on his blog last week that he wanted to return to Auckland to be closer to his girlfriend, who was injured in a car crash late last year.
‘‘Rugby league wasn’t reason I came home,’’ he said.
‘‘I’d had six seasons in England and I really wanted to be back in New Zealand around my family. the I’m grateful for everything Wigan did for me and for allowing me to head home early.
‘‘I wasn’t sure what would happen with my career but the opportunity came up to train with the Warriors this week and now I’m excited about signing for the club.’’
Gelling won the Super League in 2016 and last season’s World Club Challenge after Wigan’s 22-6 victory over Cronulla Sharks.
‘‘It’s a stroke of luck for us that Anthony has come back. He proved himself in the Super League and has immediately impressed us at training this week,’’ Warriors coach Stephen Kearney said.
‘‘We’re thrilled we’ve been able to add him to our squad. He brings size and some special skills, providing further depth and increasing competition among our outside backs.’’