Leigh pull off Iain Thornley coup

Leigh have signed Iain Thornley from Catalans for the 2019 campaign.

The 27-year-old has returned to England following two seasons with the Dragons in France.

Thornley will combine his part-time playing contract with training for a new career as an electrician.

On joining the Centurions, Thornley said: “It’s the perfect move for me and I can’t wait to get started.

“I’ve been planning for a career and life after rugby and Rugby League Cares have been a tremendous help while I really appreciate what Leigh Centurions have also done to welcome me.

“You look around the ground and the facilities and everything is Super League standard and the fans are so passionate. We need to get back up there as soon as possible.

“Now we are all trying together to build Leigh back up. It’s a special club, a family club and [John] Duffy will build a culture and a bond within the group that will make this great to be part of. I’ve played in a lot of big games, had some success but now I’m starting a new chapter and I couldn’t be more pleased and honoured to be playing for Leigh Centurions.”

On signing Thornley, Leigh coach John Duffy commented: “I’ve known Iain and his family since he was a kid.

“They were playing at Ashton Bears where I first started. Andy and Iain were juniors and their mum and dad were heavily involved in the club.

“He’s one very talented player and he’s massive. To be honest, I’d forgotten just how big he is.

“Iain’s been real smart about his career and planning for his life after rugby. But from talking to him what came through most of all is that he really wants to play for Leigh Centurions. He’s really enthusiastic about getting the club back to where he thinks it should be.”