North Wales Crusaders captain Kenny Baker has left the club to sign a deal with Championship outfit Widnes Vikings.
Baker stepped up from the amateur game midway through the 2016 season, making an instant impact as he scored five tries in 17 appearances during his debut campaign.
He was a regular once again in 2017, going on to score seven tries in 21 appearances as he gained further experience at League 1 level.
The back rower continued to improve and not only did he bag an impressive 11 tries in 24 appearances in 2018, but he also picked up the try of the season, fans’ player of the season and players’ player of the season awards.
Ahead of the 2019 campaign, Baker was given the captaincy and recorded six tries in 16 appearances, missing the later part of the season because of a broken hand.
With his continued high level of performances gaining the attention of a number of clubs at a higher level, he has signed terms with Widnes ahead of 2020.
Crusaders head coach Anthony Murray said: “We’re obviously gutted to be losing Kenny, but we knew a lot of clubs would be looking at him.
“We brought him in from the amateur game and he’s never looked back since.
“Year on year, he’s been one of the stand-out performers and he deserves this opportunity.
“He’s been a model professional, a great servant to the club and he will always be welcome back at any point in the future.”
