Wakefield Trinity has confirmed the signing of Huddersfield Giants playmaker Olly Russell as they prepare for life in the Super League.
Trinity suffered relegation in 2023 after starting the season with 14 consecutive losses, but it was their two defeats to local rivals Castleford Tigers that ultimately sealed their fate, finishing at the bottom of the Super League.
Since their relegation to the Championship, the club has strengthened significantly under new owner Matt Ellis, who has been delivering on his promises of big changes.
The latest evidence of this is the confirmation that they have signed half-back Olly Russell from Huddersfield Giants for the 2025 campaign. Russell becomes the fourth Super League star to join Daryl Powell’s side.
Earlier this year, Wakefield Trinity made a double swoop for England internationals Tom Johnstone and Mike McMeeken from Catalans Dragons on four-year deals. Just this week, they also confirmed the signing of Hull FC’s Cam Scott.
Wakefield Trinity make another Super League signing
Credit: Imago Images
It’s yet another statement of intent from Wakefield Trinity, who are clearly confident about returning to the Super League via IMG grading points. The club has developed their stadium and drawn in huge attendances to boost their score, as well as winning the 1895 Cup.
They currently sit atop the Championship table and are yet to lose a match in the league. With the arrival of Russell, they are even stronger for 2025. The move was confirmed via a statement on the club’s website.
The statement read: “Wakefield Trinity are proud to announce the signing of Olly Russell from Huddersfield Giants on a four-year deal until the end of 2028!
“The England Knights halfback becomes the fourth signing for 2025, joining Tom Johnstone, Mike McMeeken, and Cameron Scott in committing to join Wakefield.”
Russell, who had been lower in the pecking order at Huddersfield behind Adam Clune and Tui Lolohea until the recent dropping of Jake Connor, also spoke about the move to Wakefield Trinity.
He said: “I’m really excited about joining Wakefield Trinity for at least the next four years and hopefully beyond. I feel certain it’s the best place for me to keep improving my game and developing my knowledge to another level under Daryl and the rest of the coaching staff.
“The club has signed some brilliant players to go along with the quality they’ve already got and is going in the right direction on and off the field. That’s why I can’t wait for the challenge of bringing more silverware back to Belle Vue. See you in 2025, Wakey fans.”
Trinity Head Coach Daryl Powell added: “Olly is a quality halfback who has got so much potential to grow into a top-line player.”
“I believe he is at the stage of his career where he needs to become the primary organising halfback in a team, and we are delighted to give him the opportunity to do just that.
“He is a fierce competitor and quality communicator who I feel will get the best out of the people around him on a consistent basis. I look forward to working with him in the coming years as we drive towards achieving our goals at Wakefield,” added Powell.