Mathers comes out of retirement to join Bulls

Thirty-two-year-old Mathers started his career at Rhinos where he won a Super League title alongside former Bulls’ captains, Chev Walker and Matt Diskin. After a spell in the NRL with Gold Coast Titans, he moved back to England and joined Wigan Warriors before signing for Warrington Wolves.

Whilst at the Wire, Mathers won two Challenge Cup finals and recently became the club’s player welfare manager.

The full-back will continue his role at the Wolves and his contract will not be compromised, as he will continue his role as player welfare manager.

Mathers will not be included in tomorrow’s squad to face Castleford Tigers but says he cannot wait to get going at his new club.

“I’m really looking forward to the challenge,” said Mathers.

“Speaking to Jimmy and how he wants me to play in the side, I think my experience will be key to the role.

“The experience is something that you earn over time and I’m really looking to getting going with the boys.

“Jimmy sees me as bringing a very specific set of specialist skills to the side in terms of organising the defensive line.

“I will also be complementing the squad as it looks to achieve its goals.”

“Richie Mathers brings a wealth of knowledge to a key position in the spine of the team,” said Bradford Bulls CEO, Robbie Hunter-Paul.

“He’s played in the NRL and Super League and Challenge Cup Finals, in a position that demands expertise.

“He will offer structure and direction from the back of the field during matches. Whilst also having the ability to find the try line when working within the Bulls’ attacking system.

“Like all the new acquisitions for the 2016 season, Richie will add an extra layer of pressure to squad as they for battle places in the starting line-up.”