Former Kiwi star Dean Whare makes England move for rest of 2023
Photo: John Clifton/SWpix
Former New Zealand international Dean Whare has joined London Broncos for the remainder of the 2023 Championship season.
The 33-year-old has linked up with the Broncos following the conclusion of the French Elite Championship season with Pia.
Whare said: “I’m excited to join the London Broncos.
“They have a great team that matches my playing style and I love the location. I can’t wait to see what we can achieve together this season.”
The Rotorua-born centre has made more than 200 career appearances for Manly Sea Eagles, Penrith Panthers, Catalans Dragons and Pia.
Whare won 19 caps for New Zealand between 2012-17, representing the Kiwis in two World Cups.
Broncos boss delighted to pull off Dean Whare coup
Whare made his NRL debut for Manly in 2020, playing 25 games across three seasons before joining Penrith.
The Kiwi would spent eight seasons with the Panthers, scoring 31 tries in 130 appearances.
Whare made the switch to Super League ahead of the 2021 campaign, playing 38 games for Catalans over two seasons.
Since leaving the Dragons at the end of 2022, Whare has been plying his trade in the French Elite Championship with Pia.
Whare will link up with his new London team-mates imminently and will be immediately available for selection.
London coach Mike Eccles said: “I’m obviously delighted to get Dean over the line.
“We have looked long and hard for an out and out centre which has proved difficult. So to get someone of Dean’s calibre on board is a massive boost for the team.
“Dean’s undoubted ability will add another dimension to our attack and help solidify our edge defence.
“Dean has also expressed an interest in supporting the development of some of our younger players and will also support the coaching team down at the academy.
“The overall package of bringing Dean Whare to the club was something we could not miss out on.”
The Broncos face fellow Championship club York in the sixth round of the Challenge Cup at the LNER Community Stadium on Sunday afternoon, 3pm kick-off.
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