Confirmed: Riddell going to Wigan

Dominic Brock | rugbyleaguelive.com | 14/05/08 | 0

Parramatta has agreed to release hooker Mark Riddell from the last year of his contract so he can join English Super League club Wigan at the end of the season.

The Eels today confirmed Riddell’s exit, first revealed by rugbyleaguelive.com last week.

“Mark has been a great character on and off the field since joining the Parramatta Eels in 2005 and he will be a tremendous asset for Wigan, both in terms of playing strength and in his ability to promote the club and the English game,” Parramatta CEO Denis Fitzgerald said.
 
“We wish Mark all the best and we can assure Wigan Warriors fans that they are getting a player who will give his all, every game.”
 
Wigan Chairman Ian Lenagan – who made a trip to Australia last week on the lookout for local players after allowing Wigan five-eighth Trent Barrett to return to the NRL – said Riddell was an ideal signing.

“We are delighted to have signed Mark on a three-year deal,” Mr. Lenagan said.
 
“He is exactly the type of hooker Wigan needs to lead our forwards and to further develop young Michael McIlorum. He adds strength and size, brings spark to our attack and is a hard working defender who plays considerable game time. His kicking from hand and goal kicking skills are an additional benefit.
 
“Mark is a great character on the field who will go down very well with the Wigan fans and is looking forward to testing himself in the English Super League.”

Riddell, 27, will move to England in December.

We are delighted to have signed Mark on a three-year deal... Wigan Chairman Ian Lenagan