Following on from the full-backs and wingers, here are my top five current Super League centres.
5. Harry Newman (Leeds Rhinos)
A hot contender for Young Player of the Year is Leeds Rhinos centre Harry Newman. The 20-year-old has started 2020 in superb form scoring two tries and assisting in another four. Adding to this is an impressive 579 metres from 70 carries as well as 34 tackle busts, stats that have helped Newman earn an England call-up.
4. Ricky Leutele (Toronto Wolfpack)
Due to Toronto’s early-season struggles, Ricky Leutele has perhaps gone under the radar. Already the Wolfpack’s standout performer in 2020, the skilful centre produced a Man of the Match performance in the Challenge Cup win over Huddersfield prior to the season suspension, scoring a try in the process. Quick and powerful, Leutele is invaluable during exit sets and is already one of the best centres in Super League.
Ricky Leutele has been Toronto’s best player so far this season. Credit: News Images
3. Kevin Naiqama (St Helens)
Fijian international Kevin Naiqama enjoyed a superb first season with St Helens, helping them claim the Super League title while claiming a place in the Super League Dream Team. He has quickly become one of the most consistent players in the competition with his speed and strength often too much for opposition teams to handle. Having maintained his form early in 2020, it’s fair to say Naiqama is one of the best overseas signings in recent seasons.
Kevin Naiqama has scored 22 tries in 32 games since joining St Helens. Credit: Mark Cosgrove/News Images
2. Israel Folau (Catalans Dragons)
A controversial choice in more ways than one, Israel Folau is only a few games into his rugby league return but he has already proved his worth. Able to utilise his height and speed to great effect, the former Kangaroos international has played his part in a number of Catalans tries early on and could be devastating once he properly settles down to life in Super League.
1. Josh Griffin (Hull FC)
Despite usually proving to be a solid performer, you probably wouldn’t have had Josh Griffin top of this list before the 2020 season. However, the 30-year-old has produced the form of his career so far this season and was the competition’s top metre-maker prior to the season hiatus. Named in Shaun Wane’s first England squad, Griffin has hit his peak and will hope to stay there between now and next year’s World Cup.
