‘Highly-rated’ star re-joins Dewsbury Rams ahead of season opener at Hunslet
Dewsbury Rams have boosted their squad ahead of their opener to the 2026 Championship season at Hunslet.
Bailey O’Connor has signed from Featherstone Rovers to mark a return to FLAIR Stadium after first joining as a trialist in 2023 from amateur level.
During that season he helped the Rams to win the League One title before gaining Championship experience with Dewsbury the following year.
The 23-year-old then spent 2025 with Rovers, who have had their membership for 2026 denied by the RFL, in a decision which has sent shockwaves through the rugby league community.
On getting the versatile back’s signature for 2026, Dewsbury Rams’ head coach Paul March said:
“Bailey is a highly-rated player whose skill, versatility, and work ethic make him a real asset to our squad.
“We’re excited to have him back and can’t wait to see him make an impact.”
The Rams will kick off their 2026 Championship season with an away trip to West Yorkshire rivals Hunslet this coming Sunday, January (kick off 3pm).
Hunslet spent last season in the Championship following promotion from League One in 2024 but only managed two victories in 2025.
This weekend kicks off the new-look league for 2026, with the division a merger of the Championship and League One.