English captain James Graham has reportedly signed with the Canterbury Bulldogs on a three year deal starting in the 2012 season. The St. Helens forward has played Super League for over nine years, and joins the club to test himself in the NRL.
The 25-year-old was in talks with clubs including the Roosters, Penrith and Parramatta, but signed with the Bulldogs who have some breathing space in their salary cap with the loss of Jamal Idris.
Graham commented on his desire to test himself in the NRL.
“The decision to leave St Helens has been by far the biggest decision of my rugby league career,” said Graham.
“Testing myself in the NRL is something I’ve always wanted to do, and the Bulldogs just seemed right from day one.
“[Bulldogs] made it clear to me that they saw me as a big part of the future of the club and I’m looking forward, after a successful finish to my time at Saints, to linking with the club at the end of the year.”
Graham will join countrymen Sam Burgess (South Sydney), Gareth Ellis (Wests Tigers) and Gareth Widdop (Melbourne Storm) in the NRL, with more signings a possibility if English players see growth in their games.
Marcel Proust
Guest
It's probably more likely that Myler will end up playing Rugby Union. Myler is a very famous Rugby League name here in England. One of the Mylers left Rugby League to play Rugby Union at Northampton. He plays there at Fly Half. I wouldn't be surprised to see the other Myler follow him there.
Marcel Proust
Guest
Oikee, you will be pleased to know that he comes ( more or less ) from my part of the world: Liverpool. Pretty unusual for a Rugby League player to come from this city. That's the interesting thing for him - he will be in a city where there is a great Rugby League culture, on the front page and the back page of the papers. It's not quite like that over here in Engand..................
Ben S
Roar Guru
I'm only a part-time Super League fan, but I would love to see more of our best English players playing in the NRL. I think it is a great life and sporting experience.
Chris
Guest
Great signing. Is a free supply of sun cream written in his contract? Guy is BLUE.
NF
Guest
It's great to see more British talent in the NRL the player drain is now going the other way with the likes of Sam Burgess & Garth Ellis who have performed well in Australia.
M1tch
Roar Guru
Great signing for the Bulldogs, great to see Graham out here for next few years he is quality. Interesting so far we are signing forwards, I'd love to see Richie Myler perhaps play for Souths next year.
oikee
Guest
Mate, this is huge, can you imagine England annoucing they have signed Lockyer in his prime to a 3 year deal. ? I have been watching this guy for 3 years now, he is probably the best forward to come out of England, and is only young for a front rower. Yippee. Good buy.