Andy Powell: Wigan Warriors confirm deal for rugby union star
Super League leaders Wigan have confirmed the signing of Andy Powell from rugby union outfit Sale Sharks.
Ex-Wales international Powell, who has been with Sale since 2011, has agreed a three-year contract with the Warriors.
The 31-year-old will link up with Wigan on 1 June, at the conclusion of the Premiership campaign.
Sale's director of rugby Steve Diamond revealed the move to BBC Radio Manchester on 9 April but Wigan refused to comment about the deal.
Powell, a recognised number eight in rugby union, will join up with another former Sale player - centre Iain Thornley - at the DW Stadium.
And his arrival is sure to please Wigan's assistant coach Iestyn Harris, who will take charge of Wales at the World Cup later this year.
Former Wales captain Gareth Thomas was the last high-profile name to switch codes to rugby league, joining Crusaders in 2010.
Powell, who toured South Africa with the British and Irish Lions in 2009 and won the last of his 23 caps for Wales in February 2012, has played a key role in Sale's return to form, which saw them comfortably avoid relegation.