Hock makes Featherstone move

Featherstone have signed former Wigan and Leigh forward Gareth Hock on a one-year deal.

Hock, 34, left the Centurions at the end of last season following their relegation from Super League to see if he could earn a new deal at a top flight club.

The ex-England back-rower will now line-up against Leigh in the Championship for Rovers.

He said: “I am really happy to be joining Featherstone, where I have enjoyed some great battles in the past – with Wigan and Leigh.

“There is a buzz about the place and, having spoken to Martyn Ridyard about how much he is enjoying life here, signing was a no-brainer.

“I have experienced promotion to Super League with Leigh, it was one of the biggest achievements of my career, and would love to do it all over again with Featherstone.

“The club has recruited very well and will certainly challenge the likes of Toronto and Leigh at the top of the table.

“I am looking forward to playing my part in what could be a really special season for Featherstone Rovers.”

Hock spent three seasons with Leigh having previously been with Salford, Widnes and Wigan.

He last played for England back in 2012 after being withdrawn from the 2013 World Cup due to “serious breaches of team discipline.”

Featherstone coach John Duffy said: “Gareth will add a great deal of value to the squad and I am very excited to be bringing someone of his calibre to the club.

“His experience is priceless and he will play a big part in what we are looking to achieve this year.

“The club has done a great job in getting the deal over the line. Now we need to get Gareth ready to make his debut, which will hopefully be in the next week or so.”