Warriors confirm Gelling signing

New Zealand Warriors have confirmed the signing of Anthony Gelling on a one-year deal.

The Cook Islands international had been granted an early release by Wigan Warriors and the centre has trained with the New Zealand Warriors for the past week.

And Warriors head coach Stephen Kearney is glad to have Gelling at the club for 2018.

He said: “It’s a stroke of luck for us that Anthony has come back.

“He proved himself in the Super League and has immediately impressed us at training this week.

“We’re thrilled we’ve been able to add him to our squad. He brings size and some special skills, providing further depth and increasing competition among our outside backs.”

Although he only left Wigan for family reasons, Gelling is looking forward to having a dig at the NRL with the New Zealand Warriors.

The 27-year-old said: “Rugby League wasn’t the reason I came home.

“I’d had six seasons in England and I really wanted to be back in New Zealand around my family. I’m grateful for everything Wigan did for me and for allowing me to head home early.

“I wasn’t sure what would happen with my career but the opportunity came up to train with the Vodafone Warriors this week and now I’m excited about signing for the club.”