Sale Sharks sign Iain Thornley on three-year contract

Sale Sharks have signed 18-year-old Rugby League centre Iain Thornley from Wigan on a three-year contract.

A Lancashire native, Thornley is a product of Wigan’s famed Academy and has already represented England at Academy level. Despite his tender years, at 6ft 4ins and weighing in at more than 15 stone he will offer both bulk and power in Sale’s back-line.

Head coach Mike Brewer revealed: “Iain’s name was brought to my attention shortly after arriving at the club and after having a look at him play and talking to him, I decided to sign him up.”

“He is one of the hottest young properties in both codes of rugby.

“He has chosen to move to rugby union although he was a member of the Wigan first team squad and was attracting interest from Australian Rugby League sides.

“He is a big lad in peak condition who has pace, great handling skills and is very strong defensively.

“He will have to work hard but I have every confidence in him,” added Brewer.

Thornley has combined his professional sports career with his academic studies -he is currently studying for his A levels -and he will continue his education at Edgeley Park.