Canberra Raiders move will be life changing, says Harry Rushton

Young forward Harry Rushton is excited about his “life changing” move to Canberra next season.
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He is leaving Wigan at the end of this season to join George Williams and Ryan Sutton at the Raiders – despite being 18 and having not played in the first-team here yet.

“It’s a big move and a life-change but I didn’t have to think about it for too long,” he told the Blackpool Gazette - he is from the coastal town.

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“Their coach Ricky Stuart is a legend of the game I have always admired.

Harry RushtonHarry Rushton
Harry Rushton

“I know the coaching will be top-standard, and the playing standard is great as well. I’ll be able to learn from experienced internations so it can only help my career.”

A former Shevington Sharks and St Pats junior, the forward has played for England at academy level and has been tipped for a bright future in the game. He was drafted into Adrian Lam’s squad for their last game before the season was shut down, at Salford, in mid-March.

His capture at such an early age, coupled with Melbourne’s interest in Ethan Havard, suggests the NRL clubs are targeting English youngsters more and more.

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“When we won the academy Grand Final against St Helens (last year), I knew a lot of Australian scouts were watching,” said Rushton.

“I’m staying with Wigan for t his season – whenever it starts – and hopefully I’ll get a few first-team games under my belt before I leave. The plan is to fly out in December or January for pre-season.”

Dad Andy revealed “a number of Aussie clubs” had been tracking Rushton before they opted for Canberra.