Wigan youngster Matty Nicholson turns down NRL for Warrington move

Josh McAllister 29 Jun 2022 12:00 PM

Warrington have signed highly-rated youngster Matty Nicholson from Wigan on a three-and-a-half-year deal with immediate effect.

The Halifax-born forward was highly-sought after amongst Super League and NRL clubs.

Nicholson, 18, made his Super League debut earlier this year against Huddersfield at the John Smith’s Stadium. He crossed for two tries on his first appearance in an impressive performance.

His signing announcement follows the news that Stefan Ratchford has signed a new two-year deal to remain at the Halliwell Jones Stadium.

Matty Nicholson ‘one of the best young forwards in the game’

Nicholson said: “I’m excited to be joining Warrington and it’s an opportunity I’m really excited about.

“After speaking to Daryl [Powell] and Karl [Fitzpatrick] I’m excited to be a part of the plans that are in place here for the next few years. I feel like I can play my best rugby under Daryl and kick on with my development here at Warrington.”

Head coach Daryl Powell added: “Matty is one of the best young forwards in the game. We are delighted he will be joining us as we look to create an exciting mix of experience and youth in our pack.

“He will join us as a driven young player alongside Thomas Mikaele (24) and James Harrison (26) as a strong pack foundation for the future.”

Nicholson turns down NRL chance for Warrington

CEO Karl Fitzpatrick said: “Matty has been on our radar from the age of 14.

“He has always been one of the standout players at every tier. Matty was in very high demand, receiving offers from the NRL. We are absolutely delighted that he’s decided to join us.

“We already have some fantastic young talent in our first grade squad, Matty’s addition will bring further quality. Next year he will be joined by some of our outstanding academy players as they move up in to first grade, so the future is looking extremely bright.

“The deal was originally for 2023 so I’d like to thank Wigan for allowing Matty to join us with immediate effect.”