Bradford sign Wakefield youngster

Bradford have swooped to sign teenage scrum half Cain Southernwood from local rivals Wakefield.

Southernwood, 17, has signed a three-and a half year deal at the Grattan Stadium and has been handed the number 31 shirt.

Bulls coach Steve McNamara said: “I’m absolutely delighted. When the opportunity arose to try and get him, we needed to grab it with both hands. He’s a super talent and has a bright future in a position where we felt we needed to strengthen in at junior level, although I feel he has the potential to become involved with the first team.

“We are fortunate in having Matt Orford and the experience and knowledge he has will be tremendous for Cain’s development. We need to pass that down to our juniors and we see a great opportunity for Cain to improve his game at Bradford.”

Southernwood is a product of the Smawthorne Panthers amateur club in Castleford and has been selected for the England academy squad ahead of the mid-season international against France.

Southernwood said: “I can’t wait to get started. I wasn’t too happy at my old club and I just thought I needed a change, so to get this opportunity is tremendous.

“Obviously I want to play in the first team, whether it’s Challenge Cup or Super League, whatever. I just want to earn a first-team slot, work for my place and work hard for the team and learn from the coaches and some of the great players at the club.”

Southernwood’s spot in the Wakefield squad is likely to be taken by Bradford youngster Kieran Hyde, who has been released by the Bulls.