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The York Head Coach has high hopes for Fraser, who joined the Knights on Tuesday after being spotted watching on in Sunday’s 24-16 victory over Oldham at the LNER Community Stadium.
Fraser arrives after a spell with Northern Hawks, a feeder club to Newcastle Knights, with the 22-year-old also previously representing Tweed Seagulls in Australia.
Whilst he was initially planned to be a signing for the 2026 season, recent injuries to Liam Harris and Ata Hingano has nudged Applegarth into recruiting earlier.
Speaking on his addition, Applegarth told BBC York: “Clint [Goodchild, York RLFC Chairman] put him on my radar about two or three months ago, mainly as a signing for next year.
“Obviously when we got a couple of injuries, Clint said there was an opportunity to bring him over a little bit early, just so we can get some eyes on him, until the end of the year.
“He seems like a fantastic kid, and he obviously gives us that depth at the hooker and the half and we do need it.
“Like anyone that will come into the squad, he’ll have to fight for his place, but he seems like a champion kid.
“He seems like a lovely kid that will fit in nicely.”
Like anyone else, Fraser must now earn his place on the field with Applegarth eager to see the work rate of his new half-back.
Therefore Fraser won’t be involved for the Knights in Sunday’s trip to Hunslet, whilst he also continues his recovery from a recent hand injury.
“He won’t be playing this week, he’ll have to earn his shirt like all of them,” Applegarth urged.
“He’ll be in contention after this week for sure, he trained last night and we’re just being a bit smart as he’s just come back from a broken hand, so he’s missed the last two or three months.
“Naturally you want to be a bit cautious with players when you first get your hands on them.
“He seems like a lovely lad, and for his size he can defend pretty tough and he looked pretty sharp with ball in hand.
“I’m looking forward to working with him, I really am.”
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