Catalans' forward Elliott Whitehead to join NRL's Canberra Raiders in 2016
Wednesday 8 April 2015 10:16, UK
Catalans Dragons back-rower Elliott Whitehead will leave the Super League at the end of the season to join NRL club Canberra Raiders.
The Bradford academy product had a stellar 2014 season, scoring 18 tries in 27 appearances to earn a place in the Super League Dream Team before making his England debut in the Four Nations.
The 25-year-old said he was looking forward to the challenge of playing in the NRL
"After enjoying two-and-a-half years here in France, I have been given the opportunity to go and play in the NRL next season which I have always wanted to do," Whitehead said.
"I would like to thank the club and the fans for everything they have done for me and I'm still fully committed to the Dragons this season.
"Whilst I will be sad to leave, I am also looking forward to the future."
Whitehead, who will link up with England team-mate Josh Hodgson at Canberra, will be a big loss to Catalans, according to coach Laurent Frayssinous.
"I'm really disappointed to lose such a quality player," Frayssinous said.
"Since he arrived at the club, he has always given his best on and off the field to help the team.
"I'm sure he will stay in the heart of the Catalans fans, but before his move he has a job to finish under the Dragons jersey."
The Dragons’ loss is the Raiders’ gain, however, as Canberra chief executive Don Furner looks forward to adding Whitehead to their forward pack.
"Elliott is a young but experienced first grade player who will join us at the end of the season after an impressive career so far in the English Super League," Furner said.
