The big news to come out of Leigh Leopards this week is that Owen Trout is set to become the latest Super League player to move to the NRL.
Trout, 26, has been heavily linked with an club switch for 2027 all through the off-season, and reports emerged over the past few days stating that he has agreed a deal to join Cronulla Sharks upon the expiry of his contract.
The former Leeds and Huddersfield prop forward has gone from strength to strength at the Leopards, and part of that is down to current boss Adrian Lam.
Lam, who brought him to the club from the Giants ahead of 2024, has turned Trout into one of the most dominant forwards in the league, and his form in 2025 earned him a place in the England squad to face Australia in the Ashes.
Speaking to the media in a press conference earlier today [Thursday], the Leigh boss commented on how he signed Trout, and his importance to the squad.
He explained: “I remember seeing Owen play reserve grade for Huddersfield, coming off the bench. I identified him there and wanted to watch a little bit more of him and I love every part that I saw.
“I felt that we could do something with him at this club and the way he’s accelerated to being in the England team over the past three years has been inspirational, not only for Owen, but everyone around him.
The Papua New Guinean refused to comment on whether he would remain a Leigh player in 2027, but did say that regardless of his decision, he would have the full support of the club.
“He’s been unbelievable for us,” said Lam.” He’s young, he’s got a great attitude. I’ve seen leadership come out of him in the last 12 months that wasn’t there previously.
“Whatever happens with Owen for 2027, which is his prerogative, whatever that may be, we will support him either way.”
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