Jake Shorrocks plots route back to Super League after Wigan Warriors exit

Jake ShorrocksJake Shorrocks
Jake Shorrocks
Jake Shorrocks hopes playing for Newcastle Thunder will provide him with a map back to Super League.

The 25-year-old last night signed for the Championship newcomers on a one-year deal, just a day after agreeing a release from the final year of his Wigan deal.

Newcastle, who have ex-Warriors prop Eamon O’Carroll as coach and Denis Betts as director of rugby, have ambitious plans to reach the top-flight.

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And Shorrocks is excited about their prospects – and the chance of playing regular matches.

The ex-Shevington Sharks and St Pats junior said: “Super League is definitely my aspiration.

“I still want to play in Super League and hopefully that could be with Newcastle – they have ambitious plans and I’m looking forward to being a part of it. I’m going to give my all for them.

“I’ve not played regular, week to week at halfback since I was Under-19s, so I’m really looking forward to the chance to play regularly.

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"I want to prove myself and make people remember what I can do, that’s my aim for next year.

“I back myself, I feel if I can play week in, week out the rest will take care of itself.”

Shorrocks broke into the Wigan side in 2015 and helped the club march to a Grand Final. He suffered a serious knee injury early the following season and though he returned to fitness, he never cemented a spot in the side and had spells with Workington, Swinton and Salford.

He was under contract for 2021 but said: “We had a talk at the end of the season and we spoke about the chance of me playing were quite slim, with no reserves and dual res’ and bringing in Jai (Field), so I had to consider where I was going to play.

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"I spoke to my agent about getting a release. I had a torrid time with injuries, but I had a great time at Wigan.

“I learned a lot, made friends for life and did what I set out to do when I was a kid.”

Halfback Josh Woods, also released by Wigan, has also signed for Newcastle for next season.

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