Burgess adds to Catalans’ woes

PROP Luke Burgess’ season could be over just five matches into his spell with Catalans Dragons.

And he is just the latest member of the French club’s squad who will miss Wednesday’s Super League clash against Huddersfield Giants at the John Smith’s Stadium.

The 30-year-old former Leeds, South Sydney and Salford forward the older brother of England internationals Sam, Tom and George – sustained a suspected rupture of his anterior cruciate ligaments in his right knee during the Dragons’ 37-26 win at Leigh Centurions on Friday night.

The Perpignan club say Burgess, who joined them on a two-year contract following his short spell with Salford towards the end of last season, will see a specialist in Montpellier early next week to determine the full extent of the injury but are fearing the worst.

The Catalans paid a high price for their first win in six games, with loose forward Jason Baitieri breaking a wrist which will rule him out for 10 to 12 weeks.

Burgess and Baitieri, who will undergo surgery next week, join Greg Bird, Jodie Broughton, Justin Horo and Thomas Bosc on the injury list ahead of the Easter double-header, which kicks off when they play Huddersfield at the John Smith’s Stadium next Wednesday. ■■Toronto Wolfpack have made another major statement of their intent with the signing of six-times Super League champion and former Great Britain forward Ryan Bailey.

The 33-year-old former longserving Leeds prop, who was released by Warrington at the end of last season, has joined the Canadian team on a two-year contract and is set to make his debut in Sunday’s Kingstone Press League 1 game at Doncaster.

“It’s another great signing for the Wolfpack,”Toronto head of rugby Brian Noble said.

“Ryan is one of the most decorated players in the history of Super League. He brings with him a great attitude, presence and key experience. Best of all, he understands his role in the game.”