Bradford confirm signing of ex-Leeds hooker as they target top four finish

Bradford have confirmed the signing of former Leeds and NRL hooker James Segeyaro from French club Lezignan.

Segeyaro, 32, made 10 appearances for the Rhinos in 2016 before returning Down Under, and will now have another stint in the English game.

The move has been anticipated for several weeks, with Bulls officials working hard to secure a visa to sign the Papua New Guinea international.

Bradford CEO Jason Hirst said: “The club has worked extremely hard behind the scenes, over a number of months, to not only make this signing, but to obtain a visa and arrange and implement all the logistical requirements.

“We have signed James despite fierce competition from other clubs and to bring in a player of his undoubted pedigree, with over 150 NRL matches under his belt, from now until the end of the season, is testament to our on-field ambition.

“Having personally spoken to James at length, on numerous occasions, his desire to get to the UK and play for Bradford has consistently shone through. He is, without doubt, chomping at the bit to pull on our famous red, amber and black jersey.

“His signing gives us increased competition for places, on field impetus, further leadership and experience and real go forward from Dummy Half and bodes well for us achieving a Top 4 finish and a home fixture in the end of season play-off series.”

Bradford moved up to third in the Championship table with a 28-12 away win at Newcastle Thunder on Friday night.

Segeyaro has already linked up with the squad in training having completed the French Elite Championship season recently.

He has played for North Queensland Cowboys, Penrith Panthers, Cronulla Sharks, Brisbane Broncos and Manly Sea Eagles in the NRL.

He said: “To the Bradford Bulls community, I’m excited to be a part of this team and to have the honour of representing you on the field this season. I know that this team has a rich history of success, and I’m committed to doing everything I can to help us win.

“I won’t make any big promises, but I will give you my word that I’m going to work hard every day to improve my game, contribute to the team’s success and earn your trust.”

Meanwhile, the club has revealed that recent signing Jason Baitieri, the former Catalans forward, suffered an injury shortly after penning his deal with the Bulls.

That has delayed him linking up with the Odsal club, who say they are hoping to welcome him when he returns to fitness at some point next month.

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