Rawsthorne returns home by switching to Halifax Panthers

Halifax-born Nick Rawsthorne has joined his hometown club after signing a one-year deal at Halifax Panthers.

Rawsthorne, 25, came through the Halifax reserve grade in 2016, scoring four tries in seven first team appearances and catching the attention of a host of clubs including Hull FC, where he moved for the 2017/18 Super League campaign.

Following loan spells at York City Knights, Doncaster and Leigh Centurions, Rawsthorne then earned a move to Toronto Wolfpack and became one of the most prolific scorers in the Championship, scoring 27 tries in 34 games, before moving to Hull KR.

The centre, wing or full-back is also a former England Academy rugby union star and becomes Simon Grix’s tenth new signing.

Meanwhile, Panthers welcome Huddersfield Giants in an opposed training session this weekend at The Shay and fans are being urged to stay at home for a little while longer.

Normally the visit of the Giants as well as new players at the club would present an ideal opportunity for autograph hunters and selfies but in a joint appeal, the RFL, Calderdale Council and Halifax Panthers are urging all fans to stay safe at home.

“We understand the pent-up demand from fans to see our players and get close to the action and we are keen to see everyone back at the Shay, but at the correct time”, said a club spokesman.

“Our fans have been amazing throughout the whole pandemic and we just need a tiny bit more patience and look forward to have them all with us in due course”

Access to the car park and Shay will be restricted in line with Covid-19 protocols and the club will be keeping fans updated on social media.

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