Former Salford Red Devils winger Krisnan Inu finds new UK club

Leigh Centurions have confirmed the signing of international three-quarter or fullback Krisnan Inu.

Inu, 35 next month, has enjoyed a stellar playing career in the NRL and at the top level of the game in Europe and since leaving Salford Red Devils at the end of last season has been playing in the French Elite Championship for FC Lezignan XIII, who currently top the table with ten wins from as many games.

A vastly experienced and prolific-scoring player of vast experience, Inu made his NRL debut for Parramatta Eels in 2007 and made the first of six international appearances for New Zealand in the Anzac Test of that year, going on to represent the Kiwis in the 2008 and 2013 World Cups. Auckland born of Samoan descent, he played for Samoa in 2014.

When asked about his signing, Inu said: “I am excited to be joining the club, as there are big things happening under the tutelage of Adrian Lam at Leigh.

“I have spoken to Lammy already and we are looking forward to working together. I want to bring a lot to the table and help the other boys around me as well as this team.

“Over the years, I have got a bit stronger and taller than when I started, as now I am more of a “give the ball and let me run” type of offensive player.

“I have had coaches over my career that have opened my eyes to how I see the game.

“The longer you’re in the game, the slower it gets” is what certain coaches have said over the years, and at this stage in my career, I can certainly attest to that.

“I want to help the boys in that aspect, especially explaining the things I have seen over the years in my career. Whether it be technical or game-related, I am here to provide that knowledge to help this team in any way I can and won’t be afraid to speak up if necessary.”

Centurions Head Coach Adrian Lam said: “I am delighted to bring Krisnan into the squad.

“He brings a wealth of international experience with him and is a Super League calibre player, both of which are assets that will be invaluable to the current crop of players we have here.

“Krisnan is exactly the sort of player we were looking for with a big game mentality.

“Being a high percentage goal kicker and big athlete, he will provide more depth to our outside backs positions.

“Having coached against him, he is a man you have to make a plan for, as he is a high-level performer.”

“Having spoken to him already, I can tell he is very excited to come over and we are looking forward to having him at our disposal.”

Inu also played for Auckland Warriors and Canterbury Bulldogs in the NRL, clocking up a total of 139 games with 64 tries and 130 goals, three times reaching the Grand Final (2009, 2011, and 2013) but finishing on the losing side on each occasion.

After playing for Stade Francais in the top level of French club rugby union during the 2014-15 winter season, Inu joined Catalans Dragons for three seasons and following one year at Widnes Vikings in 2018 played the last three years at Salford. He was a member of the Salford side that reached the Grand Final in 2019 and the Challenge Cup Final the year later, again finishing with runners-up medals. He was selected for the 2020 Super League Dream Team.

During his time at Salford Inu became the regular and consistent goalkicker, scoring 24 tries and kicking 196 goals (including one drop-goal).