Broncos’ star Bailey joins Huddersfield

The former Newcastle Knights player has joined on a two-year deal from London Broncos.

Bailey, 31, played at stand-off for Manly Sea Eagles in their 2009 World Club Challenge win over Leeds Rhinos but has predominantly been a second-row during his three years in the capital.

He scored eight tries in 19 appearances for London this season but has not played since tearing a bicep after coming off the bench for the Exiles against England in June.

Huddersfield see Bailey primarily as a loose forward, though, given they never actually replaced Luke O’Donnell, their former Australia international who was allowed to return to the NRL with Sydney Roosters after the opening game of this Super League season.

Dale Ferguson played much of the campaign at 13 but has now been allowed a switch to Bradford Bulls while fellow back-row forward Jamie Cording has joined Featherstone Rovers.

“The role we have planned for him in and around the middle of the field will add another element to our attack,” said Anderson.

“He’s got a lot of quality and has some good experience in the NRL with Manly and then a few years at London.

“He’s always someone we’ve had to look out for when we’ve played against them.

“Chris is not coming to the Giants to see his career out; he has come to win something and challenge for honours. That was the key for me.

“What he will bring is plenty of experience and a new dimension to us.

“He can play in numerous positions at 13, in the back-row or as a half and, therefore, he has a lot of utility value.”

Bailey has been passed fully fit by Huddersfield after that bicep injury and expects to start pre-season training in November.

The younger brother of former Wigan, New South Wales and Australia player Phil, he said: “I am ecstatic to be joining Huddersfield Giants.

“They are a team with a strong rugby league tradition and history, amazing fans and facilities.

“I was talking to a few clubs both in the UK and overseas but Huddersfield, because of their focus on building a strong team over the past few years and the strength of the coaching team, were always top of my list.”