Oliver Gildart immediate Super League return confirmed on short-term contract ahead of Hull KR move
Oliver Gildart in action for Dolphins during the 2023 NRL pre-season challenge. Photo by Australian Associated Press / Alamy Stock Photo/
Leigh Leopards have confirmed the signing of international centre Oliver Gildart on a deal until the end of the current campaign.
The former Wigan Warriors man has already penned a three-year deal with Hull KR for the 2024 season and beyond.
Gildart, who turns 27 later this week, has failed to register a single NRL appearance in 2023, having signed with Wayne Bennett’s Dolphins ahead of their inaugural season Down Under.
He made 10 appearances last year through stints with Wests Tigers and Sydney Roosters in his debut campaign in Australia.
The England international joins Leigh as a replacement for star centre Ricky Leutele, who has been ruled out of the rest of the year due to injury.
Oliver Gildart Super League return imminent
“Having received the bad news about Ricky it was important that we quickly brought in someone else of quality into the club before the signing deadline,” head of rugby Chris Chester said.
“Oliver is a top-class English centre who has represented his country and although contracted elsewhere for 2024 he is fully committed to helping Leigh Leopards achieve their goals this season.
“Adrian coached him at Wigan Warriors and knows him very well and he’s really excited to be working with him again.
“Oliver will be available for selection for the Super League Round 21 game at Leeds Rhinos next Sunday.
“I’d like to thank once again our club owner Derek (Beaumont) for his continued fantastic support in helping us bring in Oliver and also Oliver’s agent Liam Ayoub for his assistance in this move.”
EXCLUSIVE: Leigh Leopards close to re-signing star on long-term deal to fend off NRL interest
