Branighan has played in Australia's prestigious National Rugby League

Gateshead Thunder have signed Australian half back Luke Branighan from Sydney City on a one-year deal.

The 26-year-old began his career in the Australian NRL with St George-Illawarra in 1999 before joining Cronulla Sharks on a short-term basis in 2001.

He then enjoyed a spell in the French Elite League with Lezignan before signing for Sydney in 2008.

Branighan is joined at Gateshead by Fijian prop Puna Rasaubale who also agreed a one-year-deal with the club.

Meanwhile home grown prop Matt Barron has been called into coach Tony Smith's Wales side ahead of October's Rugby League World Cup.

Although Wales will not be participating after they failed to qualify, the Durham-born 21-year-old has been called into the side for Friday's friendly with England at Doncaster's Keepmoat Stadium.