Wigan Warriors to develop Welsh youngsters

Wigan have signed three Welsh-born players, including Gil Dudson and Ben Flower

Wigan Warriors have pledged to help develop rugby league in Wales after entering a partnership agreement with the nation's governing body.

The Super League side have also agreed a separate partnership to assist Championship One side South Wales Scorpions.

In addition, Wigan announced they have signed Wales internationals Rhodri Lloyd, Gil Dudson and Ben Flower.

The three south Wales-born players were with Crusaders last season.

They will link up with Wales head coach and former Crusaders coach Iestyn Harris at Wigan, who was recently appointed assistant coach.

As part of the agreement with Neath-based Scorpions, former Wigan development coach Dave Clark has been appointed head coach.

Wigan chairman Ian Lenagan said the club they were proud to be involved with an initiative to help nurture Welsh players.

"We want to help grow the sport of rugby league in Wales and ultimately to help them become more competitive on the international stage in time for the World Cup by offering advice and support and applying our expertise to the development of young rugby players in Wales," he said.

Scorpions chairman Phil Davies added: "With this link, we will be able to mutually assist each other in regards to player and team development which will be very beneficial to both parties - money can't buy the assistance we will be getting from Wigan, especially in regards to dual registration."

Earlier in November, Wigan announced a ground-breaking partnership to share players and resources with rugby union side Saracens.