YORK KNIGHTS hope to benefit from the experience of Zak Hardaker after signing the versatile centre on a two-year deal from Hull FC.
The 34-year-old Great Britain and England international has been released early from the Black and Whites, for whom he was contracted for next season, in order to join Mark Applegarth’s side.
Hardaker is the Knights’ third signing for 2027, following Cameron McInness and Max Jowitt through the doors at the LNER Community Stadium, and adds valuable experience ahead of their second season in the top-flight.
Since starting his professional career with Featherstone in 2010, he has racked up over 400 career appearances across spells with Leeds Rhinos, Castleford Tigers, Wigan Warriors, Leigh Leopards, and, most recently, Hull.
His time with Leeds, for whom he featured 173 times, was particularly successful, resulting in three Grand Finals, two Challenge Cups and a World Club Challenge victory.
Whilst at Headingley, Hardaker also won the Man of Steel in 2015, and spent time on loan with Penrith Panthers in the NRL.
Able to play in the centres, full-back or in the halves, the consistent goal kicker has scored six tries and 84 goals for Hull across 46 appearances over the last two seasons, and won the club’s Player of the Year last term.
“I’m really excited to be joining York for the 2027 and 2028 seasons,” enthused Hardaker, who has been included in the Super League Dream Team three times across his career.
“It’s all come to fruition quickly, but after speaking to Mash (Applegarth) and hearing the aspirations of York and where they’re wanting to go, and the experience I can bring to the club and the squad, made me very excited to join.
“I’m really looking forward to joining up with the team after the off season and seeing what we can achieve together over the next few years.”
Applegarth expects the experienced back to set the standard, adding: “I’m delighted to have Zak over the line.
“He brings with him a wealth of experience, and he’s the ultimate competitor.
“The best compliment I can give Zak is that every game I’ve watched him or previewed against him, he’s the most competitive player on the field and that’s what we want at York.
“He’s a player that’s been there and done it all in a long and illustrious career.
“We want those sort of values to reflect into bringing on our York team. We think he’s going to be great for a few of our younger end.
“He leads by example and I’m really looking forward to seeing him in a York Knights shirt.”