Confirmed: Lachlan Lam staying at Leigh Leopards as Papua New Guinea superstar pens new contract

Papua New Guinea superstar Lachlan Lam has signed a new deal that will see him stay with Leigh Leopards until at least the end of 2025.

Earlier this week, Love Rugby League revealed that Lam had committed his long-term future to the Super League club, putting any speculation surrounding his future to bed.

Clubs in England and Australia were reportedly keen on Lam, but the Leopards have tied down their star man for at least another two seasons in a major piece of business for the club.

The Papua New Guinea international has been one of the standout half-backs in Super League this season, helping Leigh reach their first Challenge Cup final since 1971.

Leopards head of rugby Chris Chester said: “Lachlan signing a new two-year deal represents one of the biggest, if not the biggest, signings our club has made in a few years.

“There has been a lot of speculation around Lachlan and his future, and we have kept in constant dialogue with him and his agent.

“I am delighted to get it over the line and it represents a huge statement of intent by the player and club.”

Lachlan Lam re-signing ‘one of the biggest’ signings Leigh Leopards have made

Lam, who has represented his Papua New Guinean heritage in two World Cups, has played in all 23 of Leigh’s games so far in 2023, playing a key role in the club’s remarkable season.

Chester added: “Lachlan’s form has been a big reason behind the team doing so well this year, and so to be able to put an end to the speculation is a real plus.

“Lachlan made a great debut in the Summer Bash last year and in the second half of last season played a big part in the team achieving promotion.

“He has benefited from the continuity of the spine of the team, playing alongside Ben Reynolds or Joe Mellor at half, Edwin Ipape and John Asiata in the pack. He has also been playing off some great work by the middles, with Tom Amone and Robbie Mulhern in outstanding form.

“While all those factors have made Lachlan’s job easier, he has proved a consistent performer over the past 12 months and has great potential to improve his game even further in an environment where his talent is able to thrive.

“I’d like to thank Derek (Beaumont, owner) for his continued support of the club and Lachlan’s agent Sam Ayoub for getting this deal done.”

Lam will aim to help the Leopards win their first Challenge Cup in more than 50 years when they take on Hull KR at Wembley on August 12.

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