Former British & Irish Lion set to make Newcastle Red Bulls debut

The former England and British & Irish Lions wing, who was included as part of the squad for the Lions' 2013 tour to Australia, returns to rugby union after a short but eye-catching stint in rugby league with Wigan Warriors.

At Wigan, he crossed the whitewash in both of his appearances—a reminder of the instincts that made him the Premiership’s second-highest try-scorer of all time.

Since switching codes, Wade has kept himself match-ready with a personal trainer, and head coach Alan Dickens had previously hinted at easing him back into union over the coming weeks.

Saturday’s EPCR Challenge Cup clash against South African side the Lions at Kingston Park now offers the perfect stage for his first run in Red Bulls colours.

For Newcastle supporters, the excitement is obvious. Wade’s pace, sharp footwork, and uncanny ability to sniff out space have long made him a nightmare for defences across union, league and even the NFL, and many will be eager to see how his league spell has sharpened his game.

With only nine tries separating him from Chris Ashton’s all-time Premiership record, his return adds an extra layer of anticipation to the winter schedule.

Wade is one of seven changes to the side that opened the competition with a gritty 24–13 win away to Lyon. He joins a reshuffled back line featuring Cameron Hutchison and Elliott Obatoyinbo, with Ethan Grayson moving to fly-half.

Up front, Ollie Fletcher and Richard Palframan slot into the front row, while Tom Christie captains the team from the open side after a standout, try-scoring performance last weekend. Finn Baker and Ollie Leatherbarrow also come into the Red Bulls pack for the 5.30pm kick-off.