JOSH HARDCASTLE has returned to his roots following his exit from Featherstone Rovers.
Hardcastle was one of ten Featherstone players still left in limbo before the RFL’s decision to deny Rovers entry into the Championship for 2026.
Now the 33-year-old has rejoined amateur side Featherstone Lions – the club where his rugby league career began.
Being a Featherstone fan and a player for almost a decade, Hardcastle was emotional when giving his response to Featherstone’s exit from the second division.
He said: “It’s been a real rollercoaster. Having been a fan as a kid going home and away, to playing nine seasons for my hometown club, it has been a real privilege.”
“Not only your support on the field, but after my stroke (in 2023) the financial support and help I received will always be most appreciated at a time when we needed it the most,” he added.