Warrington Wolves have announced the signing of England International halfback George Williams on a three-and-a-half-year contract.
The 26-year-old joins Warrington as a free agent after being released from his contract with NRL side Canberra Raiders in May.
Williams has previously won two Betfred Super League titles during his time with Wigan Warriors as well as being part of the side that memorably beat Cronulla Sharks in the 2017 World Club Challenge.
The Wigan-born halfback debuted for England in 2015 and has gone on to earn ten caps for his country, including two appearances in the 2017 Rugby League World Cup.
On the move, Williams said: “I’m really excited to have signed for Warrington. It’s a club that I’ve had plenty of tough games against in the past and The Halliwell Jones Stadium is a ground that I’ve really enjoyed playing at.
“The boys here at the club that I know from England camps spoke really highly of the organisation and the culture here. There’s some world class talent and some real experience in this group.
“I’m really proud that I stepped out of my comfort zone to go out and test myself in the NRL and I like to think it’s helped me develop my game in the last 18 months which I’m hoping to showcase here at Warrington.
“The team has been building nicely this season and I’m just keen and excited now to come in and get started.”
Warrington Head Coach Steve Price said: “We as a club are always on the lookout for quality players and it’s great that we’ve been able to sign a player of George’s calibre to a three-and-a-half-year contract.
“He’s a competitive man and an exciting player who has achieved the highest honours in the game here in the English Super League. I’m looking for George to add value and apply pressure to our playing squad during the second half of this campaign.”
Wolves Chairman Stuart Middleton commented: “We are delighted to have secured the services of a world class British half-back.
“Since George’s availability became known to us, he became our number one recruitment target. However, bringing him in mid-way through this year proved extremely challenging with numerous complexities attached. Therefore, we are immensely delighted to finally be able to announce this signing to all our loyal supporters and partners.
“I’d like to place on record my thanks to Wigan Warriors for allowing George to join us despite having a first refusal agreement.”
