Botham to be a Bull?
By Mally (24/06/03)
June 24 2003
It looks like Liam Botham's possible code change may be going ahead as Liam has spent the past week with the Bradford Bulls, and turned out as an over-age trialist in the Bulls' U21s match against Warrington on Sunday.
Botham's contract with Newcastle Falcons was not renewed for the coming season, and while Leeds Tykes and London Irish were rumoured to be interested in signing Liam, Botham was also contemplating switching codes, as Simon Cohen of the player's representatives, James Chapman & Co commented in May:
"He is quite keen on the challenge. He wants to move on and I think his style of play would suit rugby league."
Appearing for the Bulls at centre on Sunday, Liam has made what The Guardian describes as "a good initial impression" and will turn out in the Bradford Bulls U21s side again when they take on St. Helens this week.
Garath Maclure has joined Glasgow Warriors, who have recently announced 11 other signings including Cameron Mather from Leeds Tykes. The 2002 - 03 season was something of a nightmare for the winger, initially on the transfer list, then once recalled his season was plagued by injury.
Also this week Gloucester confirmed that Steve Brotherstone has signed with them after being released by Newcastle Falcons. Brotherstone was "gutted" at being released mid contract as he told The Evening Chronicle in May:
"I am bitterly disappointed with the club and feel let down and angry at the decision to release me from my contract with just three months notice."
With Olivier Azam's return to France Gloucester were on the look out for a new hooker and according Gloucester's Director of Rugby, Nigel Melville, Steve fits the bill.
"Steve hasn't got any World Cup commitments, so he will be involved with us in pre-season. He is a quality player, we know all about that. He had some injuries last season, so he didn't play as much as he would have wanted, but this is a very good opportunity for him." (The Evening Chronicle - June 19th)
Other departures include James Christian and Craig Newby who have returned home, while flanker Rob Devonshire and lock Andrew Springgay are out of contract. The future of Richard Arnold has been the subject of much debate - is he staying or is he leaving? The official website has him listed as being out of contract while on June 9th The Journal reported that Arnie had been offered a new contract and was expected to sign the deal.
Only 2 new signings have been confirmed, those of Ben Gollings (NEC Harlequins) and Garath Archer (Bristol Shoguns), while Jonny Wilkinson, Jamie Noon and Hugh Vyvyan have all signed new contracts.
Rumours continue to circulate over other leavers, with little news coming from the club while negotiations are still on-going. However with many fans fearing a repeat of last season unless signings are made and key players retained, no news is not good news...