Bradford Bulls’ return to the Betfred Super League is taking serious shape, with head coach Kurt Haggerty overseeing a major recruitment and retention drive designed to bring the club back to prominence after more than a decade away from the top flight.
The Bulls – who were last in Super League in 2014 – have made a series of key moves to strengthen their roster for 2026 and beyond, headlined by the signings of Jayden Nikorima and Loghan Lewis, both arriving from the now-demoted Salford Red Devils.
Nikorima, who has signed through to the end of 2028, brings experience and creativity to the halves after stints with the Sydney Roosters, Melbourne Storm, Catalans Dragons, and Salford. The New Zealand-born playmaker is seen as a marquee addition capable of guiding the Bulls around the park.
Lewis, a powerful prop, joins Bradford on a two-year deal and is looking for a fresh start after a difficult period at Salford. Known for his impact off the bench and strong defensive work rate, Lewis is expected to be a major contributor in the middle third of the field.
The club also confirmed the return of Eribe Doro from Hull KR on a two-year contract, while Will Gardiner joins from Hull FC, bringing recent Super League experience to the Bulls’ forward pack. Gardiner has signed until the end of 2027, as has Brandon Douglas, who arrives from Halifax Panthers.
In terms of retention, the Bulls have tied down several key young players to multi-year extensions, ensuring stability as they prepare for life back in the Super League:
- Zac Fulton – grandson of rugby league Immortal Bob Fulton – re-signed through 2027.
- Eliot Peposhi has extended until 2028.
- Alfie Leake, Jamie Gill, and Cameron Bate have all re-committed until 2027.
- Joe Keyes and Mitch Souter will remain until 2026.
After years of rebuilding in the Championship, the Bulls’ resurgence continues to gather momentum. With their roster now taking shape, Bradford appear determined not just to survive, but to re-establish themselves as a force in English rugby league once again.
