How old is Ratchford? 

We are discussing the possible signing a front line prop, Vaughan, aged 35 next April on a two year deal. Players fade at very different rates. One year extensions safest for us but you can't always get what you want. I am sure there are some examples of props at that age getting two year deals but there are going to be so many more who won't.

The thing with Vaughan is the situation with his wife. I believe she put her career on hold to come here, signed up for 2 years and extended for another. If she wants to go home, and who could hold that against her, does Vaughan actually see out a two year deal. We could give him the contract, and spend that money on the balance sheet for 2027 but he bail out either in 27, or even in the 26/27 off season, leaving us without a prop and going to the leftover section for a starting prop at short notice. 


The alternative is that we give him a year, with a planned review mid way through 2026 to see how it’s playing out both on form and on the family situation. Then commit to funding another year or progress other options for 2027 rather than be at the back of the queue and over pay in desperation.


I think it’s a sensible move from the club, and a long as both parties are open and honest, acting in good faith, there is no reason why it can’t work for both. Such as a ‘mutual option’ clause for 27 which needs to be triggered by May for example. 

There is also the issue of their children`s education.

York is too far to commute daily from Warrington, so a move over to Yorkshire would mean their kids would have to leave Warrington and all the friends they have made here,  They would then be up-rooted again to return to Australia when his York contract expired.

Good bit of info. about the situation.
Thanks. 

Vaughan in year 2 if fading, will still be better than any other prop we have on the books. 

What I heard is Vaughan’s family are to return to Australia at the end of this season whatever Vaughan’s next career move is.
Vaughan had a year at Wire tabled, York then offered 2. 
Vaughany said to say he’d like to do a spell in the championship!? Which was a weird thing to say, then the York interest came out!


I’ve been very open with my thoughts on Vaughan. When he wants it, he is the best prop in SL. 
I can count all those times on one hand. His poor discipline has cost us more games than his good performances has won us. 


He can go for me, far more consistent options in the NRL and with more years than a 35 year old. 


Anyways, we’re talking to a prop at Canberra Raiders already. 
From what I’m hearing, Vaughany is as good as gone to York. 


Ps, this site iOS mobile stability still sucks and that’s why I seldom post anymore.

We need your enthusiasm on here Rubber so get yourself a laptop.


Aussies who are over here and have families at home must be tough. Life is short & I reckon family should stick together but we are all different.

Smiffy.
Not yet found a positive thinking laptop I can get into my pocket. 

https://www.alloutrugbyleague.co.uk/news/george-williams-transfer-deadline-date-1271744

https://www.alloutrugbyleague.co.uk/news/george-williams-transfer-deadline-date-1271744