New deal for Hunslet prop

The prop/loose-forward joined Hunslet from Newcastle Thunder last December after previous spells with Hull and York City Knights.

The Parksiders were top of Betfred League One when the competition was abandoned, after just two rounds, because of coronavirus.

“I’m 29 now and at this stage of my career being at an excellent club like Hunslet is exactly right for me," Aldous said.

"I enjoy whatever role GT [coach Gary Thornton] asks me to adopt, whether it’s playing big minutes at prop or coming off the bench to take over from Vila Halafihi at loose-forward on the occasions when he’s been switched to hooker."

Aldous, who has signed a one-year contract, insisted: “I was delighted to join Hunslet late last year, especially as I was teaming up again with Gary who I’d enjoyed working with at York.

“We’d gone well in pre-season, had started off impressively in the league and also had a good run in the Coral Challenge Cup, so it was clear to me that we were building something good.”

Skipper Duane Straugheir and former Leeds Rhinos academy forward Halafihi have also signed on for next year.

Thornton said: “I was fortunate to get Jack on board last year amid competition from other League One and Championship clubs.

“During his short spell with us last season he showed what value he adds to the team and hopefully the fans saw a glimpse of what is to come from Jack.

"His work rate is phenomenal and he never takes a backward step. He’s not the biggest of middle-unit players, but he has adapted his game well to be really effective in both attack and defence.”

Thornton added: "He has gained respect from his teammates as they value his contribution to the team.

"Jack will be the first to take one of those tough carries that coaches expect of the middle-unit players and he never shirks the workload expected of him.

"I’ve coached Jack before during my time at York and I know he will be a massive addition for 2021.”

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Laura Collins