Wigan centre Iain Thornley makes Championship loan move

Wigan centre Iain Thornley has joined Championship side Barrow on a one-month loan deal as he continues his recovery from a lengthy injury lay-off.

The 31-year-old hasn’t played since picking up a knee injury last June against Castleford.

Thornley returned to his hometown club Wigan ahead of last season from neighbours Leigh. He played in their Challenge Cup win over Huddersfield but injury limited him to nine appearances.

The towering outside back will get game time with the Raiders in the Championship for the next month as he nears his return to full fitness.

Wigan transition coach John Duffy said “With no reserves game this week this is the best opportunity for Iain to return to playing.

“We look forward to watching him play. He has worked excellently through this rehabilitation.”

Barrow delighted to secure Iain Thornley loan signing

Thornley is a Super League Grand Final winner and 2x Challenge Cup winner. He has made almost 200 career appearances for Hull KR, Catalans, Leigh and Wigan.

Barrow coach Paul Crarey said: “Iain comes with a great attitude; and is a high quality, experienced centre that knows how to play.

“He is a big body that will give us some punch and strike on an edge.

“I personally would like to thank Wigan transition coach John Duffy; and the club itself for making the loan move possible.”

Wigan have recall option

Per the terms of the loan agreement, Thornley will not be available to feature in Challenge Cup fixtures for the Raiders.

Wigan will have the option to recall Thornley at any point following the first two weeks of the loan.

Raiders chairman Steve Neale said: “We are delighted to bring Iain in to strengthen the squad, and I must thank Andy Gaffney and Paul Crarey who have both spent a lot of time in conversations with Wigan to secure the deal.

“Iain is a proven Super League quality performer who featured in last season’s Challenge Cup Final. He is just the boost we need as we head into a tough fixture with Halifax.

“He will miss out a week later as Wigan don’t want him cup-tied; but we are hoping that he can continue to play in the league fixtures until his form warrants a place back into the Wigan first team. If he does that, then both clubs will be happy.”

Thornley could make his Barrow debut in Saturday’s Championship clash with Halifax at home.

READ NEXT: Halifax forward joins fellow Championship club on loan