Widnes announce eight departures

Widnes have confirmed eight departures following the conclusion of the 2021 Championship campaign.

Veteran props Matt Cook and Paul Clough have already announced their retirements from rugby league, with their final games being in the 26-16 win over Oldham on the final day of the season.

Winger Deon Cross is expected to join Super League side Salford, with Widnes saying he has agreed to join a full-time club and pursue his ambition of playing in Super League. Cross scored 24 tries in 31 games for the Vikings.

Winger Jayden Hatton is leaving to pursue a full-time career. He scored 16 tries in 32 appearances during his three years with the Widnes first team.

Full-back Daniel Hill has agreed to join Super League reigning champions St Helens on a two-year deal. He broke into the Vikings first team this year, making six appearances.

Widnes have confirmed that winger Owen Buckley will leave the club upon the expiry of his contract this year. He has scored 11 tries in 13 senior games since breaking into the first team.

Back-rower Josh Wilde departs the Vikings to seek more game time elsewhere.

Experienced front-rower Lee Jewitt has struggled with injuries during his time with Widnes and leaves upon the expiry of his contract. He is now running his own sports counselling and welfare programme.

A Widnes statement read: “The club would like to thank all of the departing players for their efforts in Vikings colours and wish them the best of luck going forwards.

“We have been working on our recruitment and retention strategy for much of the 2021 season and are still working to finalise the squad for the season ahead.”