Wigan Warriors’ cross-code convert Andy Powell is heading in the right direction according to South Wales Scorpions head coach Dave Clark.
The 31-year-old made his debut on Sunday for the Championship One side on dual-registration, three months after leaving Sale Sharks.
Despite playing for the injury-ravaged Warriors in Super League already this season, Powell’s development at a lower level will benefit all parties insists his new coach.
“Andy’s going in the right direction with his knowledge of the game and how he’s improving each week,” Clark told his club’s website.
“As a middle unit player he’s got that mentality of catch the ball and run hard.
“Whatever comes in front of him defensively he wants to smash and he already has that mentality and he showed that out there on Sunday.”
The former British and Irish Lion spent two seasons at Sale before leaving the Aviva Premiership side in April to test his skills in rugby league.
But despite his best efforts, the Welsh powerhouse was unable to prevent a 36-30 loss at home to Gateshead Thunder.
Powell could prove to be an important weapon in the Welsh international side heading into October’s World Cup.
And the former Wales rugby union international admitted the demotion to Championship rugby was nothing to worry about.
“It was always the plan when I joined Wigan to head out on dual registration,” he said.
“To be playing in Wales for the Scorpions is another important step for me in my development.”
Parent-club Wigan will be looking to reclaim their Super League-leaders status after securing their place in the Tetley’s Challenge Cup final with their demolition of London Broncos last weekend.
The Warriors face Hull KR on Friday night and head coach Shaun Wane is looking forward to seeing Powell continue developing in South Wales.
“We have been delighted with how he has settled in here at Wigan and how he has quickly adapted to the game,” he said.
“He will benefit greatly from playing competitive rugby league.”
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