Wigan duo head out on loan
Pic: Wiganwarriors.com
Wigan pair Harvie Hill and Zack Eckersley have joined Championship side London Broncos on a month’s loan.
The 19-year-olds both made their Super League debut against Hull KR last season.
Prop Hill and centre Eckersley go straight in to contention for London’s trip to Whitehaven this weekend, plus their other Championship fixtures in February against Halifax and Sheffield.
Broncos coach Mike Eccles said: “We’re really pleased to welcome Harvie and Zach to the Broncos. We’ve been working closely with Wigan in recent weeks and are delighted to reach an agreement.
“Harvie Hill is a very good middle and current England Knights squad member. He’s tough and can carry the ball hard, he’s a good addition for us.
“Zach is a great prospect too and is an exciting skilful player. He’s a big unit who again can carry the ball well and is a great defender.
“We look forward to monitoring their progress through the month.”
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Looking to push for Wigan first team place
They join fellow Wigan forward Ramon Silva on loan in the capital. The Brazilian came through the Broncos academy before moving north, and made his debut in the Championship opener against Batley.
Silva is yet to play for Wigan, but did play two times each for Widnes and North Wales on loan last season.
Wigan Head of Youth, Shane Eccles added: “This is a great opportunity for the lads to go out and gain valuable experience playing in the championship on a weekly basis.
“Both players have come through our Academy and Reserves pathway and are now training full time with the first team squad with the ambition of breaking into the team.
“The opportunity for the players to get weekly exposure to playing in the championship will prepare them for what is required to play at high intensity consistently.
“Over previous seasons we have had success of players going spending time on loan, gaining valuable experience playing in a competitive environment which has helped them learn and develop their game to push into the first team.
“Brad O’Neill spent time out on loan in 2021 and then played a vital role in the 2022 challenge cup campaign.”
