Lewis Fairhurst joins Hornets on one-year deal

Rochdale Hornets have unveiled full-back Lewis Fairhurst as their latest signing ahead of the 2025 season.

Fairhurst has agreed a one-year deal and becomes the third player of the week to make the move to the Crown Oil Arena, joining utility half-back Morgan Punchard and returning prop forward Joe Taira. 

The 27-year-old previously played for North Wales Crusaders during the 2019 season, and now returns to competitive first grade action after spending a year with Leigh Leopards’ reserve team.

Fairhurst made 13 Betfred League 1 appearances in 2019, scoring twice and providing a further nine conversions.

On the move, Fairhurst said: “I’m really looking forward to this new chapter in my career. There seems to be a really good aura around the club after a positive season.

“I'm coming in after having a strong year with Leigh, and I’m looking to take my form into this next chapter and help Rochdale go one step further and get back to the Championship for 2026.

“I believe that with the coaching staff and players we have, this is more than achievable.

“My main focus now is to settle into the club, have a strong pre-season and cement my place as a regular starter for the upcoming season.”

Rochdale Hornets head coach Gary Thornton said: “Lewis is an experienced player at League 1 level, and he arrives at the club after a successful year playing for Leigh’s reserves.

“He is comfortable at full-back or pivot, so adds depth to our squad and is a welcome addition. His experience will be invaluable for us.”