Alex Bishop, a former half-back for Whitehaven, has signed a one-year contract with the Barrow Raiders.
After Ellis Robson joined last month, he is the club’s fourth off-season acquisition and the second from Betfred League 1 play-off finalists Keighley.
Bishop, who was born in Australia, played for the Redcliffe Dolphins and North Devils, as well as the Broncos and Storm feeder teams, with many other NRL stars.
Bishop, who is now thirty, moved to Keighley last season after spending two seasons with Whitehaven after moving to Cumbria three years prior.
He made 14 appearances and scored four tries at Cougar Park, including three in his opening four games.
In addition, he is the grandson of Tommy Bishop, the renowned dummy-half who played 39 games for Barrow in the 1960s and briefly coached the team in 1985 while coaching at Workington Town.
Bishop, who is currently located in Cumbria and works at Sellafield, stated: “I’m thrilled to be back playing in Cumbria, as it’s home for me now.
“I first got in touch with the club because I wanted to play with Kingy [Ryan King] and Curtis [Teare] again, and also help the Raiders achieve real success in 2025.
After recuperating from a knee injury for a year in League 1, I’m eager to resume playing Championship rugby.
“Games in these areas are fantastic to play in because Cumbrians are tremendously passionate about their team. I’m also thrilled to carry on my family’s relationship with this fantastic club.
“I’m confident it will be a successful season because the players are already in the squad.”
“It’s fantastic news that Alex will be joining the Barrow Raiders for the upcoming season,” stated Paul Crarey, head coach. I thought he could bring a fresh and exciting energy to the group as soon as he contacted me and said he wanted to come play for the club.
“He was highly endorsed by his
teammates with whom he has previously played at Whitehaven.
“We anticipate Alex being a key member of our team for the upcoming campaign.”
Director of rugby Andy Gaffney said: “Alex contacted the club and wanted to reunite with his former team-mates in Ryan and Curtis.
“We are all looking forward to seeing what he can bring to our squad for next year. He comes with a lot of pedigree, and I know he will give his all for the club.”
Leave a Reply