Richard Mathers comes out of retirement to join Bradford Bulls

Richard Mathers, in action for Wakefield against Bradford in 2014.Richard Mathers, in action for Wakefield against Bradford in 2014.
Richard Mathers, in action for Wakefield against Bradford in 2014.
Former Leeds and Warrington full-back Richard Mathers is to come out of retirement and play for Championship club Bradford Bulls.

The 32-year-old announced his decision to hang up his boots last September, just a fortnight after being given a six-month ban for breaking the rules on betting.

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Mathers subsequently took up a job as player welfare manager at Warrington, where he was a Challenge Cup winner, and will retain that role as he takes up a part-time 12-month contract with James Lowes’s Bulls.

“I’m really looking forward to the challenge,” said Mathers, who has also played for Gold Coast Titans, Wigan, Castleford, Wakefield and London Broncos. “Speaking to Jimmy and how he wants me to play in the side, I think my experience will be key to the role.

“The experience is something that you earn over time and I’m really looking forward to getting going with the boys.

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“Jimmy sees me as bringing a very specific set of specialist skills to the side in terms of organising the defensive line.

“I will also be complementing the squad as it looks to achieve its goals.”

Bradford chief executive Robbie Hunter-Paul said: “Richie Mathers brings a wealth of knowledge to a key position in the spine of the team.

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“He’s played in the NRL and Super League and Challenge Cup Finals, in a position that demands expertise.

“He will offer structure and direction from the back of the field during matches.

“Whilst also having the ability to find the try line when working within the Bulls’ attacking system.”

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Leigh Centurions head coach Paul Rowley has dropped a 
bombshell on the eve of the new season by announcing his resignation.

Rowley, 40, a former Leigh and England hooker who has been on the club’s backroom staff since 2008, cited personal reasons for his decision to quit, just 10 days before the Centurions’ opening Championship fixture.

“It is with a heavy heart I have decided to resign of coach of Leigh Centurions,” he said in a short statement.

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“My reasons for leaving are personal and I will not comment further in public or in private.

“I thank the players for everything they have given me and the club.

“My only regret is that I will not be there this year to lead them once more.”