“Is that what IMG want?” – Jon Wilkin raises Leigh Leopards question

Round One of any Super League season is always full of talking points and that was no different last week.

Warrington Wolves laid down a real marker with a thumping win over Leeds Rhinos, Hull KR surprised Wigan Warriors and Hull FC and Castleford Tigers served up a thriller.

But for Jon Wilkin, speaking on Sky Sports, the biggest talking point was the Leigh Leopards.

It was a party atmosphere at Leigh last week as they returned to Super League with their new name and look.

They competed against Salford Red Devils but were defeated. However that was not where the story ended with amazing pre-match entertainment, a striking new kit and Derek Beaumont’s flashy leopard print jacket.

Wilkin raised an interesting question about the Leopards and Beaumont and whether or not this is what IMG, who are coming in to reimagine the sport, want from Super League.

“The biggest talking point from Round One was the Leigh Leopards and their impact on Super League but not just them but their owner Derek Beaumont,” Wilkin said on Sky Sports.

“What a jacket? That is a jacket. It is a big year for rugby league and that was a statement. With IMG coming in, is this what they want?

“I can tell you it has a battery pack inside and it has LED lights in the eyes and smoke comes out of the nostrils. It is an awful jacket.

“He had a great time, it was a party down at Leigh.”