James Bell explains major difference between St Helens and Leigh ahead of move

James Bell impressed greatly in his 2021 season for the Leigh Centurions in what was a dismal season overall for the Lancashire club.

And, in doing so, the New Zealander earned himself a deal at reigning champions St Helens – a club that have won the Super League Grand Final three years in a row as well as the Challenge Cup in 2021.

Unsurprisingly, then, Bell cannot wait to get started, citing the differences between being in a team at the bottom and one which has achieved the success that Saints have had.

“Ideally, you want to be a part of greatness as a footy player, so I’m probably in the perfect team to try and achieve that,” Bell told Saints TV in his first interview.

“My mindset going towards pre-season is to focus on myself and get myself as fit as I can be and put myself in the picture because there’s some quality players here.”

The 27-year-old is not fazed by the expectation of coming into Saints’ environment, but knows that he will need to be on his game throughout the year.

“Coming into this group there is probably some sort of expectation to bringing another standard and a higher level.

“So there’s a bit of pressure there – it’s just a matter of absorbing it and living up to my own expectations and trusting myself.”

Bell will turn out alongside fellow new signings Konrad Hurrell, Will Hopoate, Joey Lussick and Curtis Sironen in a St Helens shirt in 2022.