Leigh Leopards have been known to sign a strong number of Papua New Guinean internationals over the years, and they have added another to their playing squad for 2026.
Coach Adrian Lam is fond of bringing players from his home country to the club, with half-back Lachlan Lam and hooker Edwin Ipape two of the Leopards’ key players that both hail from PNG.
The club who finished a record-best 3rd this season have now began to announce who they will bring in to try and improve for next season, and they have started with a big-name international to bolster their forward pack.
Jacob Alick-Wiencke has signed for the club on a three-year deal, joining the club from NRL side Gold Coast Titans.
The 25-year-old has made 19 senior NRL appearances to date, but boasts a wealth of experience in the Queensland Cup, making over 80 appearances in the Australian reserve grade.
As well as being able to play in the front row or at loose forward, Alick-Wiencke has been primarily used as a second rower, and will provide tough competition to the Leopards pack.
On the international stage, he has represented the Kumuls on 10 occasions, all of which were with Lam as a teammate. He started at loose forward in all three group stage matches in the 2022 World Cup, as well the defeat to England in the quarter finals.
New Leigh Leopards man believes move will be “a great opportunity”
Speaking on his move to the Super League, and how excited he is to reunite with the younger Lam, he said: “I’ve been watching how the boys have gone these past few weeks and I’m excited to be joining the Leopards.
“I’m close mates with Lokie and have been talking to him for the past two months. I’ve watched the past few games and it’s amazing to see the packed crowds and the atmosphere at the games. This is a great opportunity for me to progress my career and move up to the next stage.”
Coach Adrian was also pleased to get this signing over the line, having admired his ability for a long time.
He said: “I have known Jacob for a long time. He is a player that has a lot of potential, X Factor and is very skilful. He is a big body, powerful with a great offload.
“Off the back of this, he is a good person and he will fit into our group perfectly. Adding Jacob to our squad shows our intention, commitment and purpose on building our squad to the next level.”
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