Wakefield Wildcats snare Kiwi star Locke

Former Salford player Kevin Locke is joining Wakefield.

The Kiwi “resigned” from Salford Red Devils last week and has joined Wildcats as a free agent, pending a visa confirmation.

Auckland-born Locke began his playing career at New Zealand Warriors in 2009, finishing his first season at the club as top points scorer.

After five years at the Warriors Locke signed a three-year deal with Salford in 2014, but the move failed to work out.

He is set to return to the NRL for next year.

The 26-year-old played for New Zealand in the 2013 World Cup final against Australia.

He signed for Wakefield this morning, after undergoing a medical at Belle Vue.

“I am delighted to welcome Kevin Locke to the club,” said Wildcats chairman Michael Carter.

“Kevin showed a great desire to come and play his rugby here and get a smile back on his face.

“We think we can help him achieve that which will be good for him and us.

“I can’t wait to see him pull on the red, white and blue jersey.”

Locke is set to make his debut in next Wednesday’s home clash with Hull.

Meanwhile, Carter confirmed he has submitted six months’ notice of Wildcats’ intention to quit Belle Vue, due to rental costs at the stadium.

He is hoping to renegotiate the current arrangement, but said the club will attempt to find an alternative venue elsewhere in West Yorkshire if that does not happen.