WIDNES Vikings have signed Harrison Hansen from Leigh Centurions until the end of the 2019 season.

The hard-hitting forward, who was Captain of Leigh, has played almost 400 senior career games.

With representative honours for New Zealand and Samoa, and Challenge Cup and Grand Final victories under his belt, Hansen brings experience at the highest levels of the game.

This signing has been made possible thanks to the support of Luke Backhouse and The Backhouse Group.

Hansen started his career at Wigan Warriors, where he amassed almost 250 appearances over the course of nine years.

At the Warriors, Hansen established himself as a dominant and skilled forward, winning the Grand Final in 2010, the Challenge Cup in 2011, and a Super League and Challenge Cup double in 2013. In 2008, he led the Super League for most tackles made in a season, with a phenomenal 806 tackle count.

In 2014, Harrison signed for Salford Red Devils. He went on to play more than 50 games in two seasons for the side, scoring nine tries.

Harrison joined Leigh Centurions in 2016, leading the side as their captain. At the Centurions, Harrison’s power, experience and leadership shone, as he was named both the Players’ Players and Coaches’ Player of the Year.

He will be eligible to play for Widnes Vikings in their final game of the regular season, against Castleford Tigers (Halton Stadium, 29th July – 3pm kick off).

Harrison Hansen says: “I am excited to be joining Widnes Vikings. It has been a bit of a whirlwind 24 hours for me, but I believe that this move is the right one for me and my family. Representing Widnes Vikings offers a new challenge, helping the club to perform at its best and maintain its place in the Super League,"

"I have always relished challenges and played well under pressure, so I know what it takes to help the Vikings in this year’s campaign. I am an honest, hard-working player, who always gives 100 per cent and never takes a backward step, so I hope that I can give both the team and the fans a real lift at this stage in the season.

"Widnes Vikings have some really talented players in their side, and I’m very impressed by the young players coming through here, so I’m looking to help this team to fulfil its potential. Hopefully we can turn a few heads for the remainder of the season and into 2019.”

Francis Cummins, Interim Head Coach at Widnes Vikings, says: “We are delighted to be signing Harrison, not just for this vital stage of the season, but also as we prepare for the 2019 campaign too,"

"Harrison offers real experience and leadership to the team, having played in some quality environments and featured in high-pressure games throughout his career.

"He will bring real presence to either our middle or our edge, as someone who plays with real intent and offers power in defence. I am sure that he will go on to become a favourite of our Members and supporters.”