Rhys Davies eyeing up Wales spot with Hornets move

Rochdale Hornets is delighted to welcome latest recruit Rhys Davies for the 2022 Betfred League 1 season.

The Welshman primarily plays at second-row but is able to occupy other positions in the forward pack, and joins the club from Championship outfit Dewsbury Rams.

Davies, 25, was born in Blaenau Gwent in South Wales, and is hoping an impressive season at the Crown Oil Arena could see him earn a call up to John Kear’s Wales squad for the upcoming Rugby League World Cup. 

“I’m really excited to be on board with Rochdale,” said Davies. 

“It's a well respected club with some great players that have good ambitions to succeed. This made it a no-brainer for me to sign here.

“I’ve met Matt (Calland) at the stadium for a chat. He has big goals and I’m really looking forward to progressing with him and I appreciate the opportunity he has given me.

“My personal goals are to earn a playing spot within the squad and reach the play-offs. I also want to get a place within the Wales squad for 2022 World Cup.”

Head coach Matt Calland added: “Rhys is a big, strong lad from Wales and has a good attitude.

“He is keen to do well and push for a place in the team, and I look forward to working with him.”

On the latest addition, chairman Andy Mazey added: “Rhys is physically a Championship-ready forward who is coming for an opportunity to force himself into Matt Calland’s seventeen on a regular basis and develop his game.

“While negotiating a deal with Rhys, his attitude was first class and he demonstrated a passion to be part of what we are building here and to give himself the platform to play regularly at a good standard and hopefully make the Wales World Cup squad on the back of a big 2022 with Hornets. 

“Welcome on board, Rhys.”