Alfie to Wigan

[TRF_Cymro]

Gareth Thomas is set to become a shock first signing for next season by the Challenge Cup winners, Wigan. The former Wales rugby union captain, the second-oldest player in Super League at 37, has been left without a contract by Crusaders dropping out of the competition.

http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/general/rugby-league/veteran-thomas-to-join-wigan-2347042.html
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[TRF_Olyy]

What?!


Just....what?!?!

He wasn't even that good for Crusaders, could see him going to Salford or Wakefield or something, but Wigan? What do they want him for?!

 

[TRF_Cymro]

To be fair he was pretty handy for the Crusaders, squad player at best for Wigan.

 

[TRF_Cymro]

SSN - Confirming he has signed.

 

[TRF_Olyy]

Had a look on the Wigan fans forum - they're absolutely livid :lol:

 

[Gavin]

What happened to the movie about Alfie?

 

[SelimNiai]

What happened to the movie about Alfie?

I think that might have something to do with it. In all the promo stuff for the film it will mention something along the lines of "Thomas, now playing for Wigan in the Spuer League" and think all the intrest Wigan will get in themselves. Not so much from the RL fraternity but the casual observer who has a passing interest.

 

[TRF_Olyy]

Haha, it does read like something that'd roll over the screen before the credits


"After the Crusaders club was forced to fold, Gareth moved to Super League champions Wigan Warriors"


Still think it's a terrible choice by Wigan. He was average at best for Crusaders - he won't be able to transition to coaching like an older player might because his exerience is in the wrong game
He'll be a good on field leader as far as his Union experience has taught him, but they'll have academy players that have experience at League than he has - doubt he comes cheap as well - money should've been spent either improving a prospect on their cards, or looking elsewhere in the SL or NRL for a centre.
Purely for marketing this is, and could well bite them on the bum further down the line...

 

[Teh Mite]

Wigan signing a former Welsh Rugby Union international? I've heard this one before...

 

[TRF_Olyy]

Apparently the RFL pay his wages, so doesn't count towards the salary cap and Wigan get a free player a load of free publicity

If true then that's mad

 

[TRF_Cymro]

Wigan Warriors appoint Wane & Harris and sign Gareth Thomas

 

[wigan_rlfc]

http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/rugby_league/15227430.stm

Wigan Chairman - Thomas signing just a rumour.