Rugby League: Shaun Ainscough joins Rochdale Hornets

Photo: SW Pix

Shaun Ainscough has joined Rochdale Hornets from Batley Bulldogs for the 2019 season

Experienced winger, Shaun Ainscough has joined Rochdale Hornets from Batley Bulldogs for the 2019 season.

The 28-year-old who came through the academy at Wigan, before scoring 17 tries in 13 first team appearances, also played for Widnes and Castleford on loan before joining Bradford Bulls.

Ainscough then spent two seasons at the Bulls before spending a year in Australia with South City Bulls. He then returned to the UK for Whitehaven, and then later moved to Batley where he played most of his senior rugby.

Ainscough was a fan favourite at Mount Pleasant, turning out over 80 times before announcing his departure at the end of the 2018 season.

After the back end of his Batley stay was hampered by injury, a now recovered Ainscough admitted he’s excited to get kicked off at Rochdale.

Shaun said: “I’m looking forward to a new opportunity with Rochdale and I hope I can make an impact in 2019.

“Having missed the back end of the season with Batley, I am excited about getting stuck into pre-season and meeting the lads.”

Head coach, Carl Forster and his latest recruit have known each other some time and Ainscough can’t wait to link up with his old mate.

“Having spoken to Carl about this year’s plans, I believe we can turn a few heads and compete in the Championship.”

Forster was reciprocal in his excitement of working with ‘Ainy’, saying: “Shaun is obviously a quality player, he’s experienced in this league and will bring a lot to our younger boys.

“I’ve known Ainy for many years and I’m made up to bring him to Rochdale. It will be great to play and work alongside him again.”