Salford Red Devils have announced the signing of Sam Stone on a two-year deal from Leigh Leopards.
Stone had been expected to join Melbourne Storm for much of this year but the Red Devils have lured him to the AJ Bell Stadium for 2023 and beyond as they fill their final quota spot.
The 25-year-old was born in Queensland, Australia and represented two clubs in the NRL – Newcastle Knights and Gold Coast Titans – before he decided to join Leigh.
Across the 2022 season, Stone made 28 appearances in the Betfred Championship, scoring eight tries and played a major role in the Leopards’ promotion to the Betfred Super League.
Stone operates in the second-row and will add quality to the already established players in that area of the field. Kallum Watkins was a shining light for the Red Devils last season, but Stone joins Andrew Dixon as the two new signings that will add quality and depth to Paul Rowley’s squad.
Talking about the acquisition of Stone, Head Coach, Paul Rowley said: “On behalf of all the players and staff I am delighted to welcome Sam to Salford. I’ve admired Sam’s work ethic and attitude from the moment he came over to England and these attributes were very evident in his performances throughout last season.
“Kurt has worked with Sam and as always been very complimentary in his admiration of him. A player with his work ethic and character is exactly the type of player we want in our group.”
Leigh Leopards
Leigh Leopards and their problem position
