Morgan Punchard joins Hornets for 2025 season

Utility half-back Morgan Punchard has been confirmed as Rochdale Hornets’ latest signing ahead of the 2025 season.

Punchard arrives from fellow Betfred League 1 side Cornwall, where he has spent the last two seasons and made 19 appearances.

Prior to his time at Cornwall, the 25-year-old lined up for the likes of Hunslet, Dewsbury Rams and Featherstone Rovers.

News of Punchard’s signing comes days after the club announced a new one-year deal for fellow half-back Lewis Hollidge, who has spent the last year developing his game at local amateur side Oldham St Annes.

The pair will join reigning Betfred League 1 Player of the Year Lewis Else and Martyn Ridyard as options in the halves heading into the 2025 season. 

Punchard will also provide an additional option at hooker, a position he has featured at many times throughout his career.

“I’m really excited to be joining Rochdale and meeting all the boys,” Punchard said.

“I joined this club because I see where it is heading and I want to be a part of that. I spoke to Gary Thornton at length, and I liked everything he had to say about the club.

“Personally, I want to do my part in helping the team be up at the top end of the table and competing in the play-offs at the end of the season.”

Rochdale Hornets head coach Gary Thornton said: “Morgan has joined us from Cornwall and is another established League 1 player.

“He has a wealth of experience and has been in good systems at Halifax and Featherstone, and is equally effective at pivot or hooker.

“I’m sure Morgan will complement our existing pivots and add real depth to our squad.”