Adrian Purtell has become the latest Bradford Bull to commit his future to the club, after today agreeing a new one-year deal.
The Australian 29-year-old is the fifteenth member of James Lowes’ current squad to re-sign ahead of the 2015 campaign, taking the Bulls’ new-look roster to 23.
The former NRL star, who enjoyed stints with Canberra Raiders and Penrith Panthers, has scored 10 tries in 21 appearances this term. According to Purtell, agreeing to stay at the Provident Stadium – for at least a further 12 months – was an “easy” decision to make.
“I am very grateful to the club and Jimmy (Lowes) for giving me the opportunity to remain a Bradford player for another year,” said the New South Wales-born talent. “I see the one-year deal as a launchpad, ahead of what is going to be a massive year for me personally.
“I cannot speak on behalf of the rest of the team, but am desperate to ensure an instant return to Super League next year. I feel as though we have a point to prove and things to put right.
“A fantastic squad is being put together behind the scenes, which I believe will give us a great chance of achieving just that. The board and Jimmy have put together a large squad, packed full of power, pace and quality. I think we will be difficult to beat next year.”
Head coach James Lowes has paid tribute to Purtell’s intention to help ensure an immediate return to the sport’s top flight. Lowes says the three-quarter’s vast experience will prove priceless ahead of the Bulls’ debut season in the Kingstone Press Championship.
“Adrian is a very experienced player, who boasts bags of quality,” said the Bradford boss. “He was very keen to stay and I know how determined he is to play a part in what we hope to achieve next year.
“Adrian represents another fantastic addition to what is already a promising squad. I cannot wait to get going with pre-season training in October.”
