HUNSLET have taken Castleford pack prospect Sam Grice and experienced Doncaster forward Jordan Baldwinson on loan for the remainder of the season as coach Kyle Trout continues to deal with a string of squad absentees ahead of Sunday’s trip to Workington Town.
The boss is hopeful experienced forward Kevin Larroyer will be soon be back after rupturing a bicep tendon in February and subsequently undergoing surgery.
But prop Anthony Walker’s niggly knee issue is causing some concern, while winger Mackenzie Turner and centre Jayden Hatton have been sidelined.
Secondrow Grice, 19, was Castleford’s Academy Player of the Year last season, when he made two League One appearances while on loan at Workington.
He has been impressing for the Tigers’ Reserves this year, and the Super League club’s director of rugby Chris Chester thinks playing in the Championship will further hone his game.
“This loan will allow Sam to get some valuable gametime under his belt in a good competition and help his development by playing senior rugby on a regular basis,” he said.
Hunslet have dipped into the loan market regularly this year, but most have been shorter-term.
Ahead of the 48-0 home defeat by Widnes, Trout lost Doncaster pack trio Baldwinson, Sam Smeaton and Pauli Pauli after they were recalled.
Now ex-Leeds, York and Bradford man Baldwinson, 31, is back.
“It’s been difficult with injuries and having to take loans, because like all clubs, we are seeking consistency,” said Trout, who had been hoping to build on a 22-12 home win against Salford.
“But we have to try to learn through adversity and have the confidence to go after teams like Widnes.
“There are things we are doing well in spells, but other areas where we need more connection.”