Leigh land London Broncos forward

Leigh Centurions have signed forward Jacob Jones from London Broncos for the 2022 Championship season.

The 22-year-old back-rower came through London’s academy after starting out playing rugby union in Birmingham.

Jones has also enjoyed time on loan at League 1 side Coventry Bears, where he was nominated for the League 1 Young Player of the Year award in 2019.

He said: “I started out playing rugby union but watched Super League on television and the game really appealed to me.

“I had a trial at London Broncos and was signed by them before being loaned to Coventry for a season. That season was great for me personally and I went back to Broncos and forced my way into the first team.

“I can’t thank Danny Ward and Jamie Langley enough for all the help they gave me with coaching and development. The set up at Leigh is quality and I can’t wait to get out there and play in front of the fans.”

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Leigh Centurions head of rugby Chris Chester said: “Jacob is a young kid who we did our homework on. Danny Ward spoke highly about him.

“He has bags of energy, great leg speed and a good engine. He will learn a lot from people like Joe Wardle and Joel Tomkins.”

Leigh land Joe Wardle

Additionally, Leigh have signed forward Joe Wardle from Huddersfield for the 2022 Championship season.

The 30-year-old back-rower has scored 76 tries in 217 career appearances for Bradford, Newcastle Knights, Castleford and Huddersfield. He has won six caps for Scotland at international level.

Joe Wardle said: “I needed a fresh challenge and after speaking to Chris (Chester, head of rugby) and knowing what a passionate owner the club have in Derek Beaumont, it was all very appealing.”

“I have played here in the past and the backing Leigh Centurions get from the fans is amazing and I am looking forward to playing here.

“We need to prove that we are the best in the Championship and get back into Super League.”