Wigan complete Blake Green signing

Wigan have paid a “substantial settlement fee” to sign half-back Blake Green from Hull KR for next season.

Green, 25, had two-years left on his deal at Craven Park, but has been signed by the Warriors to replace Dream Team selection Brett Finch, who will return Down Under at the end of the year.

Head Coach Shaun Wane said: “I am really excited to have Blake Green joining us. We have admired his style of play for some time at Wigan with his ability to attack the line, his kicking game and his strong defence. He will be a great addition to our squad and has all the qualities we need both as a player and a person.”

With Finch and fellow half-back Thomas Leuluai departing, Wigan have now splashed out on two transfer fees, having recently signed Matty Smith from Salford City Reds.

Green joined Hull KR from Canterbury Bulldogs at the end of the 2010 season, and scored 12 tries in 27 appearances in his debut season in 2011.

He said: “I’m really excited to be given the opportunity to play for the Wigan Warriors. They are a great club with a proud history which I’m sure will only improve my game. I’d like to thank Neil Hudgell and Hull KR for the way they have treated me over the last two years and will leave them with only good memories and close friendships. 

“I am looking forward to this new chapter in my playing career with Wigan and hope to play a key role over the next couple of seasons as the team look to build on recent successes.”

The deal is likely to go some way in easing reported money worries at Hull KR, and they have already signed a replacement for Green in the shape of Penrith half Travis Burns.

Green, who captained Australia Schoolboys in 2004, made his NRL debut with Parramatta in 2007 and also played for Cronulla.