Bradford Bulls confirm signing of ex-Catalans forward
Picture by Laurent Selles/Catalan Dragons/SWpix.com.
Bradford Bulls have confirmed the signing of France international Jason Baitieri on a deal until the end of the 2023 season – subject to international clearance.
The 33-year-old made his professional debut in 2010 with Sydney Roosters in the NRL, before going on to enjoy a long spell with Catalans Dragons.
The forward made 254 appearances for the French outfit, enjoying 11 years with the club.
Baitieri featured in their 2018 Challenge Cup triumph over Warrington from the bench, as well as winning the 2021 League Leaders’ Shield, the first in the club’s history.
He left the Super League outfit upon the completion of the 2022 campaign, and has since been plying his trade with Lezignan in the French Elite competition.
The forward has also won more than 20 caps for France on the international stage, having made his debut in 2010.
👀 | When it felt so 𝐟𝐚𝐫, 𝐟𝐚𝐫 𝐚𝐰𝐚𝐲… pic.twitter.com/25ONC1RzT0
— Bradford Bulls (@OfficialBullsRL) May 4, 2023
Jason Baitieri on first-ever English move
Baitieri said: “I am really looking forward to coming over to the Bulls, I regret never coming over to England when I had the opportunity and I’m very lucky to get a chance to come to such a club that’s got a huge rugby league history in England.
“When Nigel got in contact with me and then Brian, I could tell that the Bulls were very ambitious and that the club have high aspirations in getting promoted back into Super League.
“After having a look at the bunch of players down there and how they have been travelling so far this season that made the decision easier.
“I am coming with a mindset to go and work hard for the team, wherever Mark thinks is right and play the best footy and adapt to the team as best possible.
“As we get older, we look at things differently and Bradford has huge potential to get back to where it once was and getting a chance to help and be part of that environment and atmosphere is going to be an awesome challenge.”
Bradford boss on latest addition
Bradford head coach Mark Dunning added: “I am really, really happy we have managed to get Jason on board. He has played a lot of games, over 300 in the NRL, Super League and on the international stage so we are really looking forward to having him join us.
“We look far and wide when recruiting, credit to the board who have been able to make the contact with Jason and get the deal done.”
READ NEXT: Ex-Super League half-back Jamie Ellis makes loan switch
FOLLOW: Keep up with all the latest on the Love Rugby League mobile app
