Ashton Sims set for Toronto Wolfpack debut

Ashton Sims is in line to make his Toronto Wolfpack debut at Halifax this Sunday.

Sims, 32, was appointed vice-captain by the Wolfpack following his close season switch from Warrington, but has sat out the opening two games against Leigh and Barrow.

The Australian made 90 appearances in three years with the Wolves and played more than 200 games in the NRL for St George, Brisbane and North Queensland.

Coach Paul Rowley told the club’s official website: “Ashton will be good to go this week so it’ll be good to get him on the field.

“Liam Kay was taken off as a precaution last week and he should be fit to go this week, as will Joe Westerman. Joe wasn’t quite right last week so there was no point risking him but he’ll be right to feature this week.”

It promises to be an intriguing match-up for the Wolfpack against a club for who Rowley represented during his playing days for several seasons.

An impressive 34-12 win over another of his former clubs, Leigh, was followed by a surprise 8-all draw at Craven Park against fellow newly-promoted side Barrow.

He added: “I’ve got some great memories from that club but ultimately, other than seeing some familiar faces, it’s just another game for us and we’re just after the win. I’m looking for us to improve week to week to get the win and this is no different.”

Halifax have opened with one win, against Sheffield last week, and a defeat to Featherstone, on opening day.

Both meetings between these two clubs will take place in the UK this season, with Toronto’s “home” fixture against Halifax being held at the New River Stadium, home of London Skolars.