After four years in the English Super League, former NRL premiership winner Ricky Leutele is set to make an impactful return to Australia, signing with the Souths Logan Magpies for the 2025 season in what is widely perceived to be a major boost to QLD rugby league.
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Veteran centre signs with Souths Logan Magpies
The 34-year-old Brisbane native was part of Cronulla’s historic 2016 premiership-winning team. He now joins the Souths Logan Magpies following successful stints with Huddersfield Giants and Leigh Leopards in the UK competition.
Leutele’s return comes after speculation about his future, with initial reports suggesting a second spell with Huddersfield Giants. Instead, the seven-time Samoan international has chosen to conclude his decorated career in his home state, where joining Souths—a Broncos’ feeder club—offers him a pathway back to the Australian top-flight.
Ricky Leutele, a decorated career that spans both hemispheres
Throughout his decade-long NRL career, Leutele made 128 appearances for the Cronulla Sharks between 2010 and 2018, followed by a brief stint with the Melbourne Storm in 2020. In the English Super League, he accumulated 85 appearances and scored 31 tries across multiple clubs. Notably, he was part of the Leigh Leopards’ Challenge Cup-winning team in 2023, although an injury ruled him out of the final.
Leutele’s resilience shone during his time with Leigh, where he successfully returned to the field after recovering from a serious spinal cord injury. His leadership qualities earned high praise from Leigh’s head coach Adrian Lam, who commended Leutele’s impact both on and off the field.
Magpies strengthen squad
The Souths Logan Magpies have been active in their recruitment drive, with Leutele’s signing adding significant experience and leadership to their squad. Alongside Leutele, the Magpies have secured former NRL playmaker Anthony Milford from the Dolphins, as well as Prinston Estera, Teapo Stoltman, and rugby union converts Floyd Aubrey and Viliami Lea.
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With 259 career games across all competitions and 50 NRL tries to his name, the Samoan international’s addition bolsters the Magpies’ aspirations for Queensland Cup success in 2025. His wealth of experience, combined with his resilience and leadership, is expected to inspire the next generation of rugby league talent in West End.
Published 29-December-2024
