Centurions seal deal for Wigan veteran Sammut
LEIGH have confirmed the signing of half-back Jarrod Sammut from Wigan Warriors.
The 32-year-old – who has represented Malta in both codes of rugby – announced on social media that he was moving on, despite having a season remaining on the two-year deal he signed at the DW Stadium.
Following the arrival of Steve Prescott Man of Steel Award winner Jackson Hastings, Sammut’s opportunities to feature in Adrian Lam’s side were likely to be limited and he has instead chosen to link up with the Centurions.
He will compete with Wigan loanee Josh Woods, veteran Martyn Ridyard and Josh Reynolds for starting spots in the halves as he drops back into the Betfred Championship.
The Australian-born playmaker was a key part of the London Broncos side that secured promotion to Super League before joining Wigan.
“As a player, facing Leigh was always daunting,” said Sammut.
“In all my time here in the UK as a player, I’ve not beaten Leigh so if you can’t beat them, join them.
“Leigh play the game hard and they like to play expansive rugby which is the way I like to play, too.
“As a pivot, you have to take ownership of that role and if you can’t handle the pressure then you either need to find a new position or a new career. I enjoy that pressure, knowing I’ve got the rest of my teammates depending on me. I need to
Jarrod Sammut
be at my best to ensure they’re playing at their best. It’s an empowerment and responsibility I love.”
Centurions boss John Duffy expressed his delight at securing another high-profile capture ahead of the 2020 campaign.
“Jarrod is someone who you can’t plan to counteract,” said the former Swinton Lions coach. “He plays off the cuff and I think that’s something we missed at times last season. We want him to use all the experience he has – especially in the Championship when he helped London Broncos to promotion – to help us at Leigh Centurions.”
Meanwhile, former Leigh favourite Ryan Brierley has been released from his contract with Toronto Wolfpack and has joined Hull KR.
The 27-year-old rejoined his hometown club on loan in 2019 after falling out of favour at the Canadian outfit. Despite interest from clubs across Super League and the Championship, Brierley has now agreed a deal with Tony Smith’s Robins.
Ex-Salford and Wigan halfback Matty Smith is also on the lookout for a new club, following his release from Catalans Dragons.
The 32-year-old signed a two-year deal with the Perpignan-based outfit ahead of the 2019 season, but struggled to make an impact and joined Warrington on loan in August.
In a short statement, the Dragons said they ‘would like to wish him all the best for the future.’