Burgess quartet to make history

Luke, Sam, George and Tom Burgess have all been named in the 19-man South Sydney squad for the NRL match against Wests Tigers on Friday.

If all make the cut at Allianz Stadium, it will be the first time since 1910 four brothers have played in the same side in the top grade.

The last four to do it were the Norman brothers – Ray, Roy, Rex and Bernard – from the now defunct Annandale club.

Sam Burgess‘ return from suspension this week opened up the way for all four Dewsbury-born players to line up together.

Sam and Luke have played alongside twins George and Thomas on separate occasions but the quartet are yet to be united in the same team.

“The idea of us all being in the same team, it’s something we’ve spoken about quite a bit,” Sam explained earlier this year.

“Up until this year, though, it’s not been possible because we’ve been split up at different clubs.

“I’ve played with all my brothers at different times, played in a team with George and Luke, and now with Thomas too – but, together, that’s the one thing we still have to do.

“I know people are curious and it’s definitely been a goal since we were kids.

“It’s going to happen here at Souths – it’s just a matter of when.”

Rabbitohs head coach Michael Maguire told the club’s official website that having the four brothers together is an exciting prospect.

Maguire said, “To have the four Burgess boys all together means it’s a massive day for the club.

“It’s exciting to be able to be a part of a game like this where the four brothers come together.

“They’re an integral part of what we’re doing, along with everyone else.

“We just want to give them a great opportunity to play amongst the team and play well.”