Widnes Vikings are delighted to announce our newest signing for the 2026 season, as forward Sam Wilde returns to the DCBL Stadium on a two-year deal.
The talented second-row rejoins the club after a season away with North Wales Crusaders, where he enjoyed a stellar year in 2025, crossing for 23 tries in just 20 appearances across all competitions.
Wilde, 30, is a familiar face at the club and enjoyed a successful season in 2024 in Allan Coleman’s first year in charge, helping the Vikings to a first playoff finish since relegation.
In 2024, he made 22 appearances, scoring eight tries. He has made 142 appearances for the Vikings over three spells with the club, crossing for 41 tries.
On his return, Wilde said: “I’m buzzing to be back here. Everyone knows how I feel about this club. I’ve always enjoyed my rugby playing here, so when I got the opportunity to come back, I had to take it.
“I want to pick up where I left off. A lot of the fans know what my game is about already. I’m all about bringing that strong work ethic, and hopefully, I can add some experience now.
“Next season we should be challenging at the top, I don’t care what anyone else says, I believe in the squad we’ve got and we can definitely compete this season.”
Wilde held the record for most consecutive games with a try in 2025 across all three divisions, scoring in 14 consecutive games last campaign.
Head Coach Allan Coleman said: “We saw in my first season how good a player Sam was. He was really influential in our success in 2024.
“He’s a high-scoring back rower, he’s played at a good level, and was consistently up there as one of the best in this competition.
“Unfortunately, we couldn’t retain him at the end of that season, but we’ve worked really hard to get him back, and I’m over the moon to get him in for the next two years.”
Welcome back, Sam. We can’t wait to see you back in action!
Signings like this are assisted by the fantastic Widnes VIPS scheme in place to assist in strengthening the Vikings’ squad. If fans wish to sign up for the scheme, they can do so here.
Wilde is sponsored by Jeannie’s Away Travel for the 2026 season!
Get your 2026 season tickets HERE
