Leigh sign Michael Ostick

Leigh Centurions have moved to sign prop-forward Michael Ostick for the forthcoming Championship season.

Ostick originally played for Widnes St Maries before turning professional with the Widnes Vikings club. After making his way in the clubs academy, Ostick debuted for the Vikings in 2008 and made seven substitute appearances.

Later in his first season Michael enjoyed a loan spell with Barrow that brought a further five games and the first two tries of his professional career (against Hunslet and London Skolars).

The following season saw Ostick make 27 appearances for Widnes, including twenty starts and he was consistently one of the top performers. It was a surprise to many when a contract offer was withdrawn and he was released.

Michael then agreed an offer from Rochdale Hornets. A seven game stint came to an end when Halifax enquired after his services and Ostick was on the move again.

It proved controversial as Michael played in a Challenge Cup tie against Swinton in Round Four for Halifax having already represented Rochdale in Round Three. As a result Halifax were disqualified from the competition. 

Ostick played in the Qualifying Semi-Final at Featherstone in 2010 but missed out on selection to the Grand Final against the same team and watched on as a Bob Beswick inspired Halifax edged Rovers in extra-time. 

Injury curtailed his Halifax appearances in 2011 and after being released he comes to Leigh seeking a fresh challenge.