NRL forward makes Super League move

Leigh Centurions have confirmed the signing NRL second row forward Sam Stone on a one-year deal.

Stone, 23, has played 39 NRL games for Newcastle Knights and Gold Coast Tigers since his first-grade debut in 2017 and is a former Junior Kangaroo representative.

“I’ve always wanted to play in England, and I think the style of footy will be great for me,” Stone said.

“The game in the NRL is very conservative and the English game is much more open and as a player you have the opportunity to express yourself.

“My dad said I should go for it, and he encouraged me to sign. After I had spoken to the owner and the coach at Leigh, I was excited after hearing of their enthusiasm and their plans for the future.

“I played with Brendan Elliot at Newcastle, who is now at Leigh, and he spoke well of the club, and I also know Alex Gerrard who spent a pre-season training with us in Australia.

“It will be my first time coming to the UK and I’m excited and can’t wait to get over as soon as possible, rip in and help the club get a few wins before the end of the season.”

Leigh boss Kurt Haggerty said: “We are very pleased to have Sam on board. He is a player who we have monitored closely and it’s great to finally get the deal over the line.

“Sam is a specialist back rower who is big, athletic and suits the style of play we are looking for. He will be a great addition to our squad.”