Leigh send duo out on loan

Super League club Leigh have sent utility back Umyla Hanley and forward Jacob Jones out on short-term loan deals.

Full-back or winger Hanley has linked up with League 1 side Rochdale on an initial two-week loan.

The 21-year-old joined the Leopards ahead of this season from neighbours Wigan, but he has yet to make an appearance for Adrian Lam’s side.

Hanley will be available for Rochdale’s upcoming fixtures in League 1 against North Wales Crusaders and London Skolars.

The Wigan-born back played 11 games for Wigan after making his first team debut in 2020. He also made 10 appearances for Newcastle Thunder in the Championship last season via dual-registration.

Leigh forward set for second loan spell

Young forward Jones has signed a one-month loan deal with Championship outfit Widnes.

The 24-year-old has made 15 appearances for the Leopards since arriving from London Broncos ahead of the 2022 season.

Jones came through the academy at the Broncos before making his first team debut in 2021. He has enjoyed a loan spell back at London this season, playing four games for the capital club.

Jones enjoyed time on loan in League 1 with Midlands before he made his first team debut for the Broncos, making 24 appearances for the Hurricanes between 2017-19.

Widnes coach John Kear said: “We are really pleased to add further competition for places with the signing of Jacob.

“He is a high quality back-rower who comes to the club ready to hit the ground running following a recent loan spell at former club London.

“We thank Leigh for their co-operation with this loan move as we head into a busy run of fixtures, and we look forward to seeing what Jacob is capable of.”

Jones could make his Widnes debut on Monday night against Batley at Mount Pleasant.

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