Giants lose out in race to sign Widdop

HUDDERSFIELD Giants have missed out on the chance to bring England international and NRL star Gareth Widdop back to the UK.

The 29-year-old halfback has agreed a three-year deal with Warrington Wolves, beginning in 2020. He will see out the 2019 season at his current side St George-Illawarra Dragons.

Born in Britain, Widdop moved to Australia with his family as a teenager and came through the ranks at Melbourne Storm before joining the Dragons in 2014 - who were then coached by current Warrington boss Steve Price.

Widdop, who is from Halifax, has made no secret throughout his career of harbouring a desire to compete in Super League and there were a number of clubs competing with the Wolves for his signature, including the Giants

“With decisions like this, there are a lot of things to look into,” explained Widdop. “I think Warrington, in terms of the club itself, has got a lot of history, is a great team and is run very well.

“I have a lot of mates in the team and it’s been a top club for a number of years. It’s a club I want to be a part of and win some silverware with

“I’ve been away from home for a long time now, and growing up in Halifax I always had dreams of playing in Super League. With my experience of playing in NRL, and having been lucky enough to represent my country, I am hoping I can draw from my leadership and bring that to Warrington.

“It’s a good team with some great players in the squad already; playing in the halves it’s a key position and hopefully I can do my part for the team whatever that might be.”