Widnes snap up Hanbury

[josie andrews]

Rhys Hanbury has become the latest Crusaders player to secure his future in Super League after the half-back signed a two-year deal with Widnes.

The 26-year-old is in his second season with the Welsh outfit following his move from Wests Tigers and became a free agent when they chose to withdraw their application for a Super League licence.

Hanbury follows three of his current team-mates - Frank Winterstein, Lloyd White and Hep Cahill - to the Stobart Stadium in 2012. Eleven members of the current Crusaders squad have now found other Super League clubs.

"Things are definitely on the up at Widnes and I had no hesitation whatsoever in signing for the club," Hanbury said.

"I was impressed with its vision and its plans for the future, plus having Frank Winterstein, Lloyd White and Hep Cahill on board is a huge bonus too and made my decision all the easier."

The signing of Hanbury, which is subject to him receiving a visa, takes the number of Widnes' recruits for their return to the top flight to 11.

Coach Denis Betts said: "Rhys is a high quality half-back and, despite the fact he's only been over here for two years, he knows the English competition really well and knows how to control his team around a pitch, which will be invaluable for us.

"The game over here can be hard to adapt to for overseas players so for us to have somebody in place who already fits that role and is comfy in their surroundings is great news."

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