Sam Powell, a seasoned rugby league hooker, is aiming to cap off his career with another Grand Final victory after recently joining Warrington Wolves under coach Sam Burgess. Powell, 34, has previously won the Grand Final three times with Wigan Warriors, lifting the trophy in 2016, 2018, and most recently in 2023.

Following Wigan’s 2023 Grand Final win over Catalans Dragons, Powell found himself without a club during the off-season. At the time, he was on a fishing trip with limited phone reception, a factor that nearly derailed an opportunity to continue his professional career. Powell recalled receiving a message from former Wigan teammate George Burgess via Instagram, who indicated that his brother Sam Burgess might reach out with an offer.

“George messaged me saying he might give me a call, and I was fishing with no signal,” Powell said. “We had it done a week after. He’s the reason I’m here.”

When Powell finally received the call from Sam Burgess, Warrington’s head coach, the club was already in the process of signing another player in his position. Nonetheless, Burgess asked Powell to give him the weekend to arrange a deal. The negotiations were successful, leading to Powell’s transfer to Warrington.

“I remember the first phone call. I was actually fishing on a Friday, it was the off-season and I had no club,” Powell recounted. “Warrington had just signed a nine, actually, but he said, ‘Give me the weekend and I’ll try to get you here.’ It worked out and here we are today. I’m very appreciative of it.”

Powell’s move represents a significant addition to the Warrington squad as he prepares for what would be his seventh appearance at Old Trafford, the venue commonly referred to as the Theatre of Dreams for rugby league Grand Finals. His experience and previous success in high-pressure matches are expected to be valuable assets for Warrington as they pursue championship success this season.