Sheffield Eagles talent drain continues as QLT joins Toronto Wolpack

The full-back will join up with another former Eagle Rhys Jacks as Paul Rowley continues his ambitious recruitment drive with the Canadians.

The 31-year-old’s exit brings the curtain down on a glittering Eagles career, which included back-to-back Grand Final victories.

Last season he bagged 19 tries in 34 appearances and skippered the side in the absence of Steve Thorpe.

He said: “I’m very happy to be signing for Toronto. Being part of the first transatlantic sports team is exciting. With the squad we’ve assembled I’m confident we can give this first year a good crack and go on from there.”

‘QLT’ joins Adam Neal, George Tyson (Oldham) and Cory Aston (Leeds Rhinos) in heading for the exit door in recent weeks, as Eagles re-structure during the close season.

Director Mark Aston continues to lead negotiations with the rest of his squad with the aim of agreeing fresh terms on new part-time deals.

Those negotiations are thought to have been concluded with a number of his remaining members, with Matty Fozard and Duane Straugheir two players believed to have agreed to stay with the club.

Eagles are expected to confirm the names of those staying imminently, whilst Aston is also busily forging ahead with his delayed recruitment drive. After spending time away coaching Ireland, Aston has hinted that he may be about to bolster his Sheffield ranks with members of the Irish national squad.

The other outstanding issues include is where the Eagles will play next season, with Aston recently hinting that an announcement could happen this week, whilst he has also stated formal confirmation on a deal with their new ‘sponsor’ is also very close.