I'd imagine that Rhodri would trigger a 'New Talent Pool Players Allowance' under the cap too. (He's about as clear cut an example of who the exemption applies to that I can think of). If he does qualify for this allowance, his salary cap value this season will be nil and reduced by 50% next season regardless of how many first team games he plays.

He's played RL before, for the S. Wales Scorpions, before moving to Crusaders. In any case, I think he's still too young to qualify - as I remember the "new talent" rule, it's restricted to 19-23 year olds.

That seem stupid but typical of the RFL

Was really impressed with him last night and Wigan are reaping the rewards for scouting in Wales.

Been saying it for years, if clubs looked in Wales & France, they would find more future stars than an unheard of Aussie. Also the French & Welsh national teams will improve.

Looks a fantastic prospect.

Not too worried about the number of second rowers we have. If he develops to his full potential I suspect we are going to have to find somewhere to play this lad and anyway I'd like to see Gaz Hock move to prop at some point, I can see him playing the kind of powerful, ball-handling prop forward role that Andy Farrell did in his last year at Wigan, which would free up a spot for Lloyd.

Forgot to say that he looks in tremendous shape. I suspect he has a very low body fat percentage.

A few people have said that to me.

Personally I think he is an out and out back rower. I just don't think he is suited to become a prop.

Maybe I will be proven wrong.

I could see Hansen moving up to prop in a couple of years more so then Hock. Gaz is just too dangerous on the edge to think about moving him anytime soon.

Rubbish Wigan. Relying on overseas players as usual.

so is there anything to stop a team signing a player for next season and whacking him on big money as a retainer? the wage wouldnt count as he hasnt played for the first team?

Agreed !

I do think that any of the younger players coming into the team will do very well as there seems a real, air of confidence about the place that is encouraging the younger players to give it a real dig when they get there chance without fear of being completely shunned for making errors, within reason of course !

It would count if that big money put him in the top 25 earners. Being in the top 25 still counts even if they don't play. Even if, say, Fielden never plays this season, he still counts on the cap (though there are allowances made for any insurance cover, I believe).

If - and it's a big if (although a lot more likely now under the current regime) all the young lads fulfill their potential, what would the ideal pack be in 3 years? The pressure on places will be intense and someone will be squeezed out.

Props Dudson Flower Prescott Mossop Spencer Crosby Burke (all will still be young)
Back row Hock Hansen Lockers Farrell Tuson Hughes Lloyd

Presumably there's more behind this lot.

Yeah. All 4 of them :lol