George Burgess returns to NRL with St George Illawarra Dragons

Former Wigan prop George Burgess will return to the NRL in 2022 with St George Illawarra Dragons.

The 29-year-old prop was released by Wigan back in February after hip surgery ruled him out for the rest of the year.

Burgess will now return to Australia – where his twin Tom plays for South Sydney Rabbitohs – until the end of the 2023 season.

Dragons general manager Ben Haran said: “George will make a significant contribution to us here at the Dragons on and off the field; his experience and career achievements will only have a positive influence on the development of the younger players currently within our squad.

“While he has some obstacles still to overcome following his well-documented surgery, our medical staff have already commenced working with George on his rehabilitation.

“Everyone is committed to helping George get back to his fighting best ahead of the 2022 season, but no person more than George himself. We’re looking forward to him and his family joining the club.”

Burgess made 150 appearances for the Rabbitohs between 2012-19 before linking up with Wigan in 2020, where he played eight games before departing.

The front-rower won the NRL Premiership with Souths in 2014 and went on to win the World Cup Challenge the following season.

Burgess has won 15 caps for England on the international stage and has represented his country in one World Cup.

In other Wigan news, winger Dom Manfredi has announced his immediate retirement from rugby league due to injury.

The 27-year-old scored 57 tries in 82 appearances for the Warriors since making his first team debut back in 2013.

Manfredi said: “Rollercoaster is an understatement to describe my rugby league career.

“It’s been up and down a few times but, on the whole, I’ve loved every minute. I’d do it all again, despite what it’s done to my body. It’s been worth it.”