19 July 2023 , 16:00
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Warrington have snapped up Jordan Crowther - avoiding an awkward potential conflict of interest for the Wakefield vice-captain.
The loose forward, 26, was due to be out of contract at the end of the season and is understood to be joining Castleford for 2024. However, fierce rivals Castleford are also the side bottom-placed Wakefield hope to chase down in their bid to avoid relegation. Crowther was made available to other clubs - apart from the Tigers - and Warrington have secured him for the rest of this campaign as they bid to strengthen their own cause at the other end of the table.
Crowther, who made more than 100 appearances for hometown Trinity, adds plenty of experience and versatility as he can also play hooker and back-row. He is ineligible for Warrington’s next game against Wakefield but could debut against Catalans Dragons at Halliwell Jones Stadium on August 4. Crowther, who’s been sidelined with a calf injury since June 3, said: “I can’t wait to get started.
“There was a lot of pressure at Wakefield with the relegation fight this year. But then there’s also a lot of pressure at Warrington with the club pushing to achieve what they’re aiming to. I base my game on the little one percent efforts. I really pride myself on my work rate, energy and effort. I want to come in and give the team a boost for these last few games and the business end of the season.
“My job is to hopefully give the team a new lease of life and some selection headaches for Daryl [Powell]. I’m taking this as a fresh start. I’ve had a few weeks to mentally recharge and get my body physically ready. Come three weeks’ time when the Catalans game is I’ll be firing and ready to go.”
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Warrington, of course, were early Super League leaders but have won just once in nine games to slip down to fifth. Head coach Powell added: “We’ve been searching hard in the market to stiffen up our numbers in the middle of the field and Jordan became available last week. He is an experienced player with some great qualities as both a person and a player.
Warrington Wolves' new signing Jordan Crowther (Warrington Wolves)"He can play 13 and back-row as well as filling in at nine so he has a lot of flexibility as well. He will really help our drive forward over the next crucial part of the season and we are looking forward to welcoming him into the squad.”
Meanwhile, Wakefield captain Matty Ashurst, 33, has signed a one-year extension at Belle Vue.