Leigh Leopards make shock Tevita Pangai Jr signing after disappointing Hull KR spell

Leigh Leopards have taken many Super League fans by surprise with the club announcing the signing of Tevita Pangai Jr for the 2027 season.

Pangai Jr was expected to make a return to Australia and attempt to make an NRL return after his short-term contract with Hull KR ran out, however, Leigh have confirmed the prop forward as their first signing of the 2027 campaign.

It’s fair to say that Pangai Jr’s spell at Hull KR was an unsuccessful one with the prop banned for more games than he played, copping a six-match ban for an eye gouge on Jake Connor and then a further four after multiple misdemeanours against Warrington Wolves.

Hull KR’s failed appeal against one of those Warrington charges also ensured he copped another game ban, meaning he carries 16 penalty points into 2027. As such, even a Grade A charge would see him cop an immediate two-match ban but the Leopards have still opted to gamble and sign him for next season.

A statement from Leigh confirmed: “Leigh Leopards are delighted to announce the signing of Tongan international forward Tevita Pangai Junior on a multi-year deal.”

Red card stupidity, Willie Peters’ legacy, and Super League Grand Final predictions – Click here to watch the latest episode of the Serious About Rugby League Show

Tevita Pangai Jr speaks on Leigh Leopards’ move

Pangai Jr will go a long way to replacing the outgoing Robbie Mulhern, providing again that he can remain on the field. He brings plenty of experience to a pack that is losing Mulhern, Owen Trout and Isaac Liu.

He’s made 147 NRL appearances and represent New South Wales as recently as 2023, showcasing his immense talent.

Speaking on the move, he said: “Me and my family are very excited to join Leigh Leopards.

“I just wanted to thank my agent Ahmad Merhi for working tirelessly behind the scenes with Andrew Henderson and Adrian Lam to get this across the line. I also want to thank the club, its coaching staff, Board of Directors and owner Derek Beaumont for taking a leap of faith, and hopefully I can repay that faith.

“I’m really looking forward to getting a full pre-season and working hard with my new teammates, earning the respect of the coaching staff and the players and, more importantly, our members and fans.”

✍️ 𝗔 𝗡𝗘𝗪 𝗟𝗘𝗢𝗣𝗔𝗥𝗗 𝗙𝗢𝗥 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟳 🐆 pic.twitter.com/khbigJlSHQ

— Leigh Leopards (@LeighLeopardsRL) September 26, 2026