Oldham RLFC has made waves in the transfer market by announcing two exciting signings from Australia’s Queensland Cup.  The ambitious Championship side has signed former Townsville Blackhawks player Tom Nisbet and Super League veteran Jake Bibby, who will bring new pace, skill, and experience to the squad.

Turning Heads Down Under

 Oldham did not just sign any players; they beat off competition from both Super League and Championship clubs to bring these two in.  

Their arrival demonstrates the club’s serious commitment to developing a team capable of competing at higher levels.

Tom Nisbet: Versatility & Speed

Tom Nisbet, 26, played for the Queensland Cup’s Townsville Blackhawks in 2025.  In 21 games, he scored three tries and demonstrated his versatility by playing as a centre, wing, back-row, and full-back.   His QRL profile highlights his ability to break tackles and run long distances, making him a valuable addition to the Roughyeds’ backline.

Nisbet’s relationship with Oldham isn’t entirely new—he played for them on loan in 2021—but this time he’s back on a permanent basis.   He has agreed to a one-year contract for the 2026 season, with the option of a second year.   Head coach Sean Long praised Nisbet’s “pace and strike,” describing him as a versatile “centre for this team.”   Nisbet, for his part, expressed excitement about the club’s long-term goals, stating that he believes in Oldham and wants to be a part of its success.

Jake Bibby: Experience + Ambition

The second component of this signing coup is Jake Bibby, a player with extensive top-flight experience.  Oldham have confirmed his arrival as their first major signing for the 2026 season. 

 Bibby, 29, has previously played for Super League clubs such as Huddersfield Giants and Wigan Warriors.   Despite the opportunity to stay in the Super League, he chose to join Oldham because he was drawn to the club’s ambition.  “There was something about wanting to help this club,” he told me. 

 His high-level experience will help Oldham’s backline.  According to chairman Bill Quinn, Bibby’s addition underscores the club’s “Super League aspirations.”

What This Means for Oldham

These two signings represent a watershed moment in Oldham’s squad development.  The club’s leadership is clearly pushing for growth, and acquiring quality players from Australia’s competitive Queensland Cup adds significant value.

Versatility & depth: Nisbet gives Oldham a multi-purpose back who can fill several roles.

Experience and leadership: With his Super League background, Bibby brings a seasoned voice and a strong skill set.

Ambition backed by action: Negotiating and winning the race for these players demonstrates Oldham’s commitment to growth.

Building for 2026: With forward-thinking deals (like one-year contracts with options), Oldham sets a foundation for sustainable ambition.

Challenges & Expectations

Of course, recruiting is only part of the equation.  For the signings to pay off:

Nisbet will need to adjust quickly to the Championship’s physical demands, not just the speed that he excelled at in Australia.

Bibby’s form will be critical; he’ll be expected to use his Super League experience to mentor younger teammates and deliver in crucial moments.

Oldham will have to carefully manage their wage bill while also building a competitive squad.

Final Thoughts

Oldham’s acquisition of Tom Nisbet and Jake Bibby is a bold move.  It’s more than just adding talent; it’s about ambition, long-term vision, and a clear desire to advance.  The Roughyeds are balancing their current needs with future goals by signing a young, dynamic performer as well as a proven Super League veteran.

If Nisbet and Bibby deliver, these two signings could change the course of Oldham’s season—and possibly even their trajectory for future seasons.