Catalans in David Mead coup

Catalans have signed Papua New Guinea international David Mead from Brisbane Broncos on a three-year deal.

Mead, 29, can play across the back line and captained his country at the recent World Cup, his third tournament.

Dragons head coach Steve McNamara said: David is a very exciting signing for our club and the Super League competition.”

“His blistering speed and attacking assets have been proven in the NRL over number of years and these were further enhanced with his recent performances for Papua New Guinea. I am sure he will quickly become a favorite of the Catalans’ fans who will love seeing him in action.

“Captaining his country also created the perfect opportunity for him to show his leadership qualities and we look forward to seeing this part of his game grow further with the Catalans Dragons.

“We as a club, and in particular Christophe Jouffret, have worked extremely hard to make this deal happen. Signing an overseas player of this pedigree is becoming more difficult and this is a real coup not only for ourselves but the Super League competition as a whole.”

Born in Port Moresby, Mead starting his career with Gold Coast Titans before making the switch to the Broncos last season.

He added: “My family and I are grateful for the opportunity the Catalans Dragons have given us. My time at the Broncos under Wayne has been extremely enjoyable and now I look forward to learning all about the French culture when I join my new team mates, coaching staff and management at the Dragons in a few weeks.”

Mead is the fifth new signing for the Dragons for 2018 – following on from Lewis Tierney (Wigan), Antoni Maria, Samisoni Langi (both Leigh) and Benjamin Julien (Warrington).