Rugby League Live understands that Featherstone Rovers are pursuing Australian forward Jayden Tanner. The 23-year-old, who is presently on a train and trial agreement with NRL champions Penrith Panthers, is reportedly getting closer to a deal with the Championship club.
After a stellar 2023 season, Tanner had made an appearance in the UK market. After a successful season, he was voted the New South Wales Cup player of the year by the Canterbury Bulldogs. In addition, he debuted in the NRL last season, making three appearances for the Bulldogs.
A former Australian Schoolboys representative in 2018, Tanner has a strong pedigree and was given an opportunity by the Panthers during the off-season. However, Featherstone have now come calling and work is thought to have started to ensure a deal is completed.
If that happens, Tanner will add quality to James Ford’s Featherstone squad, who were knocked out of the 1895 Cup by Batley Bulldogs at the weekend. Rovers, who have cut their playing budget after missing out on promotion to Super League last year, still have a competitive squad that boasts talent such as Greg Minikin and Ben Reynolds.
Tanner would become the latest player to benefit from the new quota rulings that have recently been implemented. He will qualify for a Governing Body Endorsement off the back of his appearances in New South Wales Cup.
Rovers are currently third favourites for the Championship with the bookmakers. Betfred has them priced at 10/1 to win the competition behind Toulouse Olympique and strong favourites Wakefield Trinity, who are 1/3 on.
