Graham confirms Canterbury move

England forward James Graham revealed one of rugby league's worst-kept secrets when he confirmed he would be leaving St Helens at the end of the season to try his luck in Australia's National Rugby League.

The 25-year-old prop, who is out of contract with Saints in November, was in big demand Down Under but has opted to sign a three-year deal with Canterbury Bulldogs and he will be in good company.

Graham will be the third England international to make the move to Australia in the last three and a half years, aiming to follow in the successful footsteps of Sam Burgess and Gareth Ellis, who are with South Sydney and Wests Tigers respectively.

Another England player, Halifax-born utility back Gareth Widdop, is at Melbourne while former Wigan loose forward Mark Flanagan is in his second season with Wests Tigers and they have been joined this year by George Burgess, younger brother of Sam at Souths, and another ex-Bradford team-mate Mike Worrincy, who is plying his trade at Penrith.

Graham had made no secret of his desire to test himself in the NRL and St Helens long since gave up trying to dissuade him.

Chairman Eamonn McManus said: "We did everything practical to persuade James to stay but ultimately we respect his wishes and ambitions absolutely.

"There comes a point where you have to just shake his hand and wish him every luck in his new career and life.

"James will be remembered as one of the all-time greats of the club, even at the age of 25.

"He has handled the situation professionally and with absolute respect for the Saints, recognising what we have done for him as well as what he has done for us. He does not need to reassure the fans that he will give 100% for the rest of the season - that is taken as read.

"The door will always be wide open for him at St Helens, and with a red carpet leading to it, if James ever returns to Super League."