BY JOHN DAVIDSON
Exclusive: Outside back Jack Maizen has made a speedy departure from Whitehaven and returned to Australia, with a move to Widnes for 2025 now believed to be off the cards.
rugbyleaguehub.com Long Reads understands Maizen, who joined Whitehaven from Halifax at the end of 2023, unexpectedly headed back to his homeland several days ago.
It is believed this is because of an off-field matter and is not expected to return.
Whitehaven have been approached for comment, while the RFL declined to comment.
The Australian, who has scored 12 tries in 20 games in the Championship, last played for Haven in their win over Doncaster on August 18.
Maizen, an Italian international, had been expected to join the Vikings next season.
But rugbyleaguehub.com Long Reads understands now that this transfer will no longer happen.
Maizen has also been approached for comment, while Widnes declined to comment when contacted.
Whitehaven have endured a terrible season with players owed wages, the head coach and manager departing, and massive upheaval at board level.
The Championship club is suffering several financial difficulties and is battling relegation.
It is believed Maizen’s exit from Haven is not due to the financial issues engulfing the club.
A centre, winger or fullback, Maizen scored four tries in three games for Italy at the World Cup in 2022.
After spending two seasons with the Sunshine Coast Falcons in the Queensland Cup, he joined Halifax in 2022, before his switch to Haven at the end of last year.
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