Barrow Raiders have signed young Wigan Warriors hooker Tom Forber on an initial two-week loan deal.
Forber progressed through the Warriors system all the way to the first team, making his debut away at Hull KR in 2022.
He amassed a wealth of experience on loan in the Betfred Championship and Betfred League 1 last season, featuring for Widnes Vikings, Whitehaven, Wakefield Trinity and Oldham.
Forber has already been included in the Warriors’ matchday squad on three occasions this season, featuring against both Huddersfield Giants and London Broncos in the Betfred Super League.
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The 20-year-old was also a key player for the Wigan reserves team that went on to win the Reserves Grand Final against St Helens last October.
His arrival at the Northern Competitions Stadium will enable the Raiders to further assess the knee injury fellow hooker Aaron Smith sustained away at Widnes Vikings in Round 1.
On his arrival, Barrow Raiders head coach Paul Crarey said: “Following an injury to Aaron Smith, we are once again grateful to the Wigan club, who have agreed to the loan signing of up-and-coming hooker Tom Forber.
“Tom is very highly thought of and has already played in the Wigan first team this year.
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“We look forward to helping him develop on his rugby league journey, and thank Wigan for once again trusting us with one of their young talents.”
Director of rugby Andy Gaffney said: “It is always unfortunate to suffer an injury so early into the season, but to be able to bring in a player of Tom’s quality gives us the opportunity to further assess the severity of Aaron Smith’s knee injury.
“Whilst out on loan last season, Tom proved on a number occasions why he is so highly-rated, and we extend our thanks to Wigan for allowing us to play a part in his development.”
During his time at the Raiders, Tom will be proudly sponsored by Lake District Prom.
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