Tonight Leigh Leopards confirmed that their new skipper would be John Asiata for the 2023 season.
This comes after an excellent season in 2022 in which the loose-forward was impressive week in and week out and was nominated for the Championship Player of the Year award though lost out to teammate Edwin Ipape who many people believe could win the Man of Steel award in 2023.
Explaining the decision to give the captaincy to Asiata, Leigh’s Director of Rugby and former Wakefield Trinity boss Chris Chester.
Speaking on Leigh’s social media page, Chester said on the decision:
“John has been a model professional since joining us at the start of 2022. His performances every week and his leadership throughout the year were the main reasons we as a club achieved what we did in 2022. Well done John!”
The Leopards begin their pre-season preparations for their return to Super League tomorrow against Leeds Rhinos at Leigh Sports Village.
Then on 17th February they host Salford Red Devils in their inaugural Super League game of the new season which is also in front of the Sky Sports cameras.
On being appointed captain, Asiata said:
“I am very excited to lead these boys out every week, I am very privileged to have this role and I am thankful to the staff and the players for choosing me to be their leader.
“To the fans, I am very excited and the season starts tomorrow.”
