Wigan Warriors have announced the re-signing of full-back Ryan Hampshire ahead of the 2023 Betfred Super League season.
Hampshire, a former Wigan youth star whose first spell with the Warriors ended with a move to Castleford Tigers in 2016, returns to the DW Stadium after an ACL injury helped to limit his involvement for Cas last season in his second spell at the Mend-A-Hose Jungle.
The 28-year-old has signed a 12-month deal with the Cherry and Whites, although the club hold a two-year option to extend the agreement.
“I am delighted to be coming back to Wigan,” said Hampshire upon the announcement of his return. “I am a different person from seven years ago and I'm keen to show the Wigan fans my commitment and capabilities. I look forward to the opportunity to help Wigan win more trophies and to earning the respect and confidence of my team-mates.”
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Hampshire will link up once more with his former Wigan academy coach Matt Peet, who is embarking upon his second season as the Warriors head coach. And Peet can’t wait to link up with his former prodigy.
“I have stayed in contact with Ryan over the years and know him well. When the possibility came up to sign him, I discussed it fully with my coaching team and our playing group. We believe Ryan is a talented player and we can bring even more out of him.
“He will provide important back-up options across half-backs, full-back and three-quarters and can drive competition for places.
“Ryan is recovering from a long-term ACL injury but our experienced medical team have performed stringent medicals to ensure that he is where he needs to be. Plans have been put in place to guide him through the final two months of rehabilitation.”
Besides Wigan and his two spells with Castleford, Hampshire has also spent time with Leigh Centurions and Wakefield Trinity, the latter of whom he represented 85 times in four seasons.
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