It was reported on TotalRL.com yesterday that Wakefield utility-back Craig Hall is poised for his exit from the Wildcats.
The fullback saw his playing time drop substantially under Brian Smith and after a heavy recruitment period ahead of 2016, Hall isn’t thought to be a part of Smith’s plans.
So where next for Hall? Here are three of the likely destinations for the 27-year-old.
1. Bradford Bulls
A move to the Bulls is seemingly the most logical outcome. Following the departure of Jake Mullaney back to Australia, Bradford are lacking versatility in the halves and the backline. Lee Gaskell and Oscar Thomas are the only recognisable playmakers following Harry Siejka’s exit, whilst additional firepower out wide would benefit Jimmy Lowes.
Hall certainly fits the bill when it comes to providing options in the backs, as has been proven in his career so far. He’s a very strong attacking player, and his Super League experience would come in useful for the Bulls.
2. Hull FC
Any potential move back to the Airlie Birds would inevitably hinge on the outcome of Lee Smith’s current trial with Lee Radford’s squad. If Smith were to sign, it’s very unlikely that Hull FC would ponder adding more depth out wide. However, if the Smith deal doesn’t come off, Radford would likely be in the market for a player such as Hall, and the opportunity to return to the KC Stadium would surely be too good to turn down.
He knows the club, scored plenty of tries there, and although he caused a stir by moving to rivals Hull KR after leaving FC, and scoring a last-gasp drop goal against his former employers whilst at Rovers, if he could start crossing the whitewash again all would soon be forgotten.
3. Featherstone Rovers
Rovers have been busy during the off-season, but it’s been well documented that they are still on the lookout for new players.
Kyle Briggs and Misi Taulapapa have both been linked with moves to Featherstone recently, but as of yet neither have materialised. In Hall, they could almost kill two birds with one stone due to his versatility, and Hall would represent a big coup for Rovers in their search for a top four finish.
