Wakefield hooker Josh Wood makes Championship move

Wakefield hooker Josh Wood will join newly-promoted Championship club Barrow for the 2022 season.

The 25-year-old made his Super League debut in 2015 for Salford Red Devils before joining Wakefield Trinity in 2020. He has made 72 appearances to date.

Josh Wood said: “It’s a complete different change for me going part time but it’s something I feel is needed after a big injury last year and I’m excited for it.

“My partner and I are having our first child in December as well, so being able to spend more time with them both will be great.

“Me and my agent spoke to a few big Championship clubs, but when I spoke to Andy (Gaffney, player director) we got on really well and his ambitions for the club next year are something that excited me.

“I’ve also spoken to a few of the lads that are there and they have nothing but good things to say about the club so I feel it’s a good move for me.

“I’m looking forward to putting last year behind me and getting ripped into 2022 with the lads.”

On the signing, Raiders coach Paul Crarey said: “Josh is an all-action nine with Super League experience. 

“He is a fearless defender and distributor and can also play in the halves.

“Josh comes with big wraps from former team-mates and coaches regarding attitude and application and we are delighted to have secured his signature.”

Meanwhile, Barrow prop Carl Forster will combine his playing duties alongside an assistant coaching role in the Championship next season.

The 29-year-old prop has signed a new one-year deal with the Raiders. He will join Barrow’s coaching staff as an assistant coach to Paul Crarey at the Matt Johnson Prestige Stadium alongside his playing duties.

The St-Helens born forward was named Player of the Year and Players’ Player of the Year at the club’s end of season presentation. He impressed throughout the 2021 campaign which saw Crarey’s side lift the League Leaders’ Shield.