YOUNG hooker Tom Forber is excited for a “fresh start” after swapping Wigan Warriors for their rivals St Helens.
Forber has signed a three-year contract with Saints, having fallen out of favour at Wigan.
He played off the bench in the Warriors’ 2024 Grand Final win over Hull KR and signed a five-year contract extension the following summer.
But the 23-year-old was limited to five appearances in cherry and white last season and none since May, instead finishing with Oldham in the Championship after prior loan spells with Castleford Tigers and Barrow Raiders.
“Unfortunately, I didn’t play as much as I would have liked last year,” said Forber, “and when the opportunity came up to join Saints, I saw it as a fresh start and a chance to prove a point.
“I want to keep learning and improving. There are so many great players and staff here, so I’ll try to soak up as much knowledge as I can and use it to better myself.
“There’s going to be some great competition. We’re all trying to make each other better, and everyone gets on really well. It’s good, healthy competition.”
With Australian hooker Tom Starling also signed up from Canberra Raiders, Forber’s arrival casts some doubt on the future of Daryl Clark.
The 33-year-old England international, whose campaign was ended prematurely in July by an ankle injury, has one season – his testimonial year – remaining on his contract.
St Helens also have Jake Burns on their books in that position.
Forber’s arrival takes Saints, who start pre-season this week without incoming coach Kevin Walters as he finishes his World Cup campaign with Australia, to five fresh signings.
Ex-Canterbury Bulldogs halfback Sean O’Sullivan has joined along with backs Solomona Faataape (Catalans Dragons) and Christian Tuipulotu (St George Illawarra Dragons).
