Parramatta Eels confirm signing of England hooker Josh Hodgson

Parramatta Eels have signed Canberra Raiders hooker Josh Hodgson on a two-year deal from 2023.

The 32-year-old England international has has made more than 270 career appearances for Hull, Hull KR and Canberra.

Hodgson has won 23 caps in total for Great Britain and England since making his international debut in 2014. He played in the 2017 World Cup and was selected on the Great Britain Lions tour in 2019.

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Parramatta delighted to secure services of Josh Hodgson

Eels general manager of football Mark O’Neill said: “We are thrilled to have Josh join our club from 2023 as he brings strong leadership and a wealth of experience in such a key position.

“Josh has played for his country and has an incredible knowledge of the game which will add value to not only the NRL squad but our emerging juniors within our elite pathways. I have no doubt that he will have a big impact at our club both on and off the field.”

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Hodgson came through the ranks at Hull FC. He made two first team appearances for the Black and Whites before moving across the city to Hull KR.

The Hull-born hooker enjoyed five solid seasons with the Robins, scoring 37 tries in 134 games for the club.

Hodgson made the big move to the NRL with Canberra in 2015. He has become one of the world’s best hookers whilst with the Raiders. He has scored 14 tries in 137 appearances for the Green Machine.

Hodgson’s father Dave also played for Hull FC and Hull KR before coaching at amateur level. Josh’s nephew, Bailey Hodgson, is currently on the books at NRL side Newcastle Knights. Bailey made a solitary appearance for Castleford before making the move Down Under.

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