Toronto Wolfpack have boosted their squad ahead of next weekend’s Championship opener against Leigh with the signings of Jack Buchanan and Nick Rawsthorne.

Prop Buchanan, 25, left Widnes at the end of last season after failing to agree a new contract, while Rawthorne joins from Hull having played for Leigh on loan in 2017.

The signings come after three players – Ryan Bailey, Dave Taylor and Fuifui Moimoi – were dismissed on the eve of the season.

Coach Paul Rowley said: “Jack’s signing is a positive step forward for our squad after losing several forwards recently. Jack has performed at a consistently high level in Super League over the last couple of seasons and will add good experience to the team.

“All our feedback from players who have played with or against Jack have been very positive. I am looking forward to him joining the team from his home in Australia as early as next week.

“Nick is a young player who covers all the back line positions. He came through the ranks at Halifax where he showed huge potential and attracted plenty of admirers.

“I feel Nick has lots of progress in his game and I know how keen he was to join us.”

Buchanan, who played for Wests Tigers in the NRL, made 40 appearances for the Vikings and joins the Wolfpack on a one-year deal.

Utility back Rawsthorne, 22, has penned a two-year deal. He has scored 18 tries in 27 appearances for six different clubs during his career to date.