Jonny Openshaw joins Hornets ahead of 2024 season

Rochdale Hornets have bolstered their squad ahead of the 2024 season with the signing of young hooker Jonny Openshaw.

Openshaw cut his teeth in junior community rugby league with amateur side Folly Lane before joining Leigh Miners Rangers.

During his time at Twist Lane, Openshaw was selected to represent the England Community Lions at U20s level.

Based in the Greater Manchester area, he joined Swinton Lions ahead of the 2022 season and made four appearances for the club before being sidelined last year with a serious knee injury which required surgery.

Having spent many months on the road to recovery, and with the new Betfred League 1 season starting this Sunday with a trip to Midlands Hurricanes, the 21-year-old is hoping to hit the ground running with the Hornets.

Openshaw said: “I’m really excited to get back on the pitch after a long 12 months out with an ACL injury. 

“I want to thank everyone at the club for giving me the opportunity, and to all the lads that have made me feel so welcome despite coming into the team late. 

“After being on the touchline for so long, I have big ambitions for not only myself, but also to get Rochdale back to the Championship in 2025.”

Rochdale Hornets head coach Gary Thornton said: “I’m delighted to have Jonny on board as he gives us a different dynamic from dummy-half.

“He’s had major knee surgery, and I’ve been so impressed by his attitude and the hard work he has put in to get back to fitness and back on the field.

“He is very quick out of dummy-half, and he’ll be a real threat to most defences and an asset to our attack. Jonny is a tough competitor, and I’m really looking forward to seeing him play again.”