To the shock of many, Huddersfield Giants have signed NRL star and England international Tom Burgess despite the fact many believed he would end up at Leeds Rhinos or with his brother Sam Burgess at Warrington Wolves.
Last year, Burgess agreed a deal to stay at South Sydney Rabbitohs as speculation ran rampant over a potential move to Super League especially after his comments at the 2022 World Cup about being a Leeds Rhinos fan and wanting to make the move.
He however, agreed a deal to stay with the Bunnies in 2024 but when this expires he will join Huddersfield Giants in 2025.
Burgess has explained his shock move to the Giants on Sky Sports, saying: “Huddersfield is probably the closest Super League club to where I’m from originally. I played for Kirkless as a kid, obviously we ended up at Bradford and Leeds at some point but it has always been my closest club.
“When it came about that they were interested and I had a good chat with Ian Watson and I had worked with him before, so yeah it all worked out and fit into place and I put pen to paper.”
Huddersfield Giants complete major coup
England v Tonga Picture by Olly Hassell/SWpix.com – 28/10/2023 – Rugby League – International Test Series – England v Tonga – The John Smith Stadium, Huddersfield, England – England s John Bateman and Tom Burgess after England s victory in the second match of the England v Tonga test series at the John Smith Stadium
Huddersfield confirmed the news with the following statement: “One of the most respected and experienced forwards within Rugby League, Thomas hails from Dewsbury, and made his breakthrough at neighbours Bradford Bulls, bursting onto the scene in Super League and then joining South Sydney Rabbitohs, where he has made over 200 appearances with his imposing 6’5” – 120kg frame bringing a huge presence to their pack.
“In only his second year down under, the powerhouse prop won the competition with his two brothers by his side, as South Sydney defeated Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs 30-6, with Burgess also playing in the 2015 World Club Challenge, where they were victorious against St Helens.
“Also, a seasoned England international, Tom played in a World Cup final for his country and has made 33 appearances for the national side to date, showing his commitment and consistency throughout his career.
“A firm favourite for his club and country, this signing marks a huge statement of intent for the Giants, as they look to strengthen their squad for the coming years in what is already a hugely competitive Betfred Super League competition.
“Burgess pens a three-year contract with the Giants, commencing for the 2025 season, with him spending the 2024 season at South Sydney, and joining up with the Giants from November.”
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