BBC Sportrugbyleague

Related BBC sites

Page last updated at 15:39 GMT, Monday, 9 June 2008 16:39 UK

Warriors snap up half-back Smith

Tim Smith
Smith is hoping to restart his career with the Warriors

Wigan Warriors have signed controversial ex-NRL young player of the year Tim Smith for the remainder of this season and next.

The Australian half-back has decided to renew his career in the Super League after being handed an indefinite suspension by Parramatta last year.

"I am grateful to the Warriors for giving me the chance to relaunch my career," said the 23-year-old.

"My aim is to impress the management and fans and to win something."

Parramatta had taken action against Smith in 2007 after allegations of drunken behaviour and leave was granted for the player earlier this season due to a bipolar disorder.

"My personal problems have been well documented but they are now behind me and I want to concentrate only on playing footy," added the former Australia schoolboy international.

606: DEBATE
wiganwardy
Wigan chairman Ian Lenagan is confident that the signing will pay off.

"We acknowledge some risks - reflected in the contract - in signing Tim after his early-season illness difficulties," he explained.

"Tim now feels ready to relaunch his rugby league career away from the Sydney media pressure."

Smith, who had also been linked with Harlequins, is expected to join up with the Warriors once his application for a work permit is approved.

related bbc links:

related internet links:
The BBC is not responsible for the content of external internet sites