Former Wigan Warriors academy starlet lands permanent Championship deal for 2026
Former Wigan Warriors academy product Finlay Irwin has secured a permanent contract with Championship club Swinton Lions for the rest of the 2026 season.
The 20-year-old forward has already made three appearances for Swinton this season, and has now put pen to paper on a permanent deal for the remainder of the current campaign.
"I’m happy to be here for the rest of 2026,” said Irwin. “I’ve enjoyed my time here with the lads, and I’m excited for the rest of the season.”
Irwin linked up with Paul Wood’s Lions ahead of this season after departing Widnes Vikings following the conclusion of the 2025 campaign.
Irwin initially played for Warrington Wolves at scholarship level before joining Wigan, where he represented the Warriors at academy and reserves level until 2024, before then making the move to Australia, where he had a brief stint with Brisbane Tigers.
“It’s great to have Fin on board,” said Swinton coach Paul Wood. “He’s already shown that he’s a quality player, but what really excites us is how much development he’s got in him because he genuinely wants to learn and get better.
“He’s been really good in contact, he’s comfortable with the ball, and he brings a good energy to the group. You can see straight away that he’s got the right attitude and is keen to improve every part of his game.
“He’s come in at the right time for us, and we’re really looking forward to working with him. We’re confident he can go well for the Lions this season and continue to grow as a player in our environment.”