NRL side Perth Bears have confirmed their first two additions to their roster ahead of 2027, with both men coming from the Super League.
The side, who will be coached by former Australia boss Mal Meninga, saw their window for recruitment open on November 1, but have had to wait over a month to bring in their first two recruits.
Following the announcement that he would leave the club at the end of the season, Leeds Rhinos star Harry Newman will finally get his chance to play in the NRL, and will move to the Bears at the conclusion 0f the 2026 season.
A seven-time England international, Newman has made no secret of his desire to play Down Under, and has been given a huge opportunity has he becomes one of Perth’s first-ever signings.
Joining him is former Canterbury Bulldogs half-back Toby Sexton, who will turn out for Catalans Dragons next years.
The 24-year-old began 2025 in impressive form, but with the Dogs bringing in talented youngster Lachlan Galvin half-way through the year, he saw his game time limited.
However, he showed his class upon returning to the side, and opened the scoring for his team in his first game in two months, coming off the bench in the club’s first play-off game of the year.
Initially signing a two-year deal, Sexton will only see out half of that before returning to his home country in 2027.
Leeds Rhinos and Catalans Dragons men make NRL moves
In a statement released by the club to confirm the new arrivals, Mal Meninga highlighted the impact both stars will have in the newly-formed side.
“I am absolutely thrilled to welcome Toby and Harry to the Perth Bears in what is a truly historic day for our club,” he said.
“Both players have all the attributes and qualities I’m looking for when building out our roster.
“Toby is proven leader that works hard to make his teammates better.
“He is a quality person who I know will make the most of the opportunity to be a trailblazer for the Perth Bears.”
On Newman, he added: “Harry is a Test player who has been a part of the successful Leeds Rhinos system for several years.
“He has the skillset and experience to make an immediate impact in the NRL and I’m really excited to see what he can do when gets here in 2027.”
Commenting on being one of the club’s inaugural signings, Sexton said: “I’m thrilled to have the opportunity to be a part of the inaugural Perth Bears roster.
“To be one of the Bears first signings is something I’m grateful for. I’m excited for the opportunity and honoured to represent the people of Western Australia”.
Meanwhile Newman, who has made 129 appearances for Leeds, revealed: “It’s always been my ambition to test myself in the NRL and I’m delighted to have the chance to do it with the Perth Bears.
“It’s a huge honour to be one of the Bears first signings and help create a legacy for Rugby League in Western Australia”
Check out the latest episode of The Serious About Rugby League Show on our YouTube channel here.
