Oldham and Cornwall bolster forward packs with new additions

League 1 duo Oldham and Cornwall have both added new faces in their forward pack with the month-long loan signings of Declan O’Donnell and Nathan Cullen respectively.

Irish international O’Donnell joins Oldham from Workington Town. The hooker has been brought in by Stuart Littler with Brad Jinks fracturing his wrist.

“Dec will be a great addition to our squad,” said former Ireland head coach Littler.

“He will bring a lot to the party. I know him well and he has a high skill set, a great work ethic, and a terrific attitude.

“He’s been in international camps and he’s keen to get back playing with us, albeit on a loan basis.

“I’d like to personally thank everyone up in Cumbria for their help and co-operation in this.”

O’Donnell, 23, came through the ranks with Wigan. He signed off his Warriors career with an Academy Grand Final victory.

Notably, he was set to play for Canadian outfit Ottawa last year before they deferred their entry to League 1.

The hooker is expected to be in contention for this weekend’s home game against Midlands Hurricanes. Oldham sit 8^th and have won two of their eight games so far this season.

KR’s Cullen heads to Cornwall

Elsewhere in League 1, young forward Nathan Cullen has joined Cornwall on a one-month loan from Hull KR.

The 19-year-old signed a reserve team contract with the Robins for 2022. Standing at 6ft 3in, he has mainly featured as a prop.

Bottom of the table, Cornwall are yet to pick up their first points of the season. They have Jack Ray missing with a broken hand while Anthony Mullay is suspended.

“Due to injuries and suspensions, we need some cover in that area,” said Cornwall chief Neil Kelly.

“Although Jack is well on the road to recovery, we still don’t know when he will be back.

“It will be a step up for him [Cullen] from reserve grade football to League 1, but the people I have spoken to within the game say he’s a very good prospect.”

Cullen will be available for Sunday’s game against unbeaten league leaders Keighley Cougars.

Facing him could be Junior Sa’u after the centre joined Keighley for the remainder of the season. He has been playing rugby union in America with Old Glory DC.