Hornets: Jack Francis has joined North Wales Crusaders on loan

Hornets Rugby League

Rochdale Hornets prop forward Jack Francis has joined North Wales Crusaders on a month long loan deal as he goes in search of regular game time.

The 24-year-old joined Hornets at the start of the 2016 season after a short spell with Coventry Bears but was hampered by a knee injury, although he did make the trip to France for their promotion final win as 19th man.

He made his first appearance of this year off the bench away to Featherstone Rovers where Hornets won 10-9, and was also an interchange in the disappointing Challenge Cup defeat to York City Knights.

Head coach Alan Kilshaw has been impressed with Francis in the off-season and still feels he has a big part to play in their 2017 campaign upon his return.

He said: “Jack had a really good pre-season but has fallen behind the other players in his position and needs a regular run of games.

“Going to Crusaders will give him that opportunity and will benefit both parties.

“Jack still has a big part to play at the Hornets this season and we’re looking forward to seeing how he goes, and he will come back match conditioned.”

The initial deal is a month long loan although there is a clause which allows Hornets to call Francis back early if he is needed.