Former Huddersfield half-back Jack Cogger joins NRL champions

Former Huddersfield half-back Jack Cogger has penned a one-year deal with NRL champions Penrith Panthers for the 2023 campaign.

The 25-year-old returns Down Under having made 27 appearances for the Giants over the last two seasons.

Cogger made 42 NRL appearances for Newcastle Knights and Canterbury Bulldogs before making the move to Super League with Huddersfield.

Panthers chief executive Matt Cameron said: “Jack joins the club with NRL experience and will add depth to the Panthers top 30 squad.

“The opportunity Jack has to work alongside representative halves Nathan Cleary and Jarome Luai will also be beneficial to his game.”

There has been a big overhaul in players at Huddersfield over the off-season. Cogger, Ricky Leutele (Leigh), Danny Levi (Canberra), Louis Senior (Hull KR) and Jake Wardle (Wigan) have all departed the club.

But Ian Watson’s side have enjoyed an impressive recruitment drive, with the likes of Jake Bibby (Wigan), Jake Connor (Hull), Esan Marsters (Gold Coast Titans), Kevin Naiqama (Sydney Roosters), Harvey Livett (Salford), Nathan Peats (Toulouse) and Harry Rushton (Canberra) all joining the Giants.

Jack Cogger one of two new signings for Penrith

The Panthers have also signed forward Zac Hosking on a two-year deal from next season. He made four appearances for Brisbane Broncos in 2022, including his first team debut.

Cameron added: “On behalf of all at Panthers, we look forward to welcoming Zac and Jack to the club ahead of the new season.

“Zac’s experience and capabilities make him an excellent addition to our squad and we’re delighted to welcome him on board. We believe Zac will really flourish in Panthers colours.”

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