Leigh Centurions have confirmed the signing of Reni Maitua on a one-year contract with the club having the option of a further year.
A vastly experienced Sydney born forward, Maitua has been on loan at Salford Red Devils for the Super 8s Qualifiers after making 13 appearances in the Kingstone Press Championship for Featherstone Rovers.
Maitua, 33, made his NRL debut with Canterbury Bulldogs in 2004 and ended a dream first season in the first grade by featuring in the Bulldogs’ 16-13 Grand Final victory over Sydney Roosters. He later played for Cronulla and Parramatta in the NRL before returning to the Bulldogs for the 2014 campaign. He scored 30 tries in a total of 174 NRL appearances.
After winning an Australian Test cap against New Zealand in 2006 Maitua later played international Rugby League for Samoa before coming to play English club football for the first time with Featherstone Rovers.
Leigh Centurions Head of Rugby Derek Beaumont, who has also suggested that the club has also signed Rangi Chase, said: ” Reni is a top quality player that we found difficult to handle, both during the games with Featherstone and subsequently in the 8s with Salford. He is very strong and comes with a wealth of experience.
“He is definitely a player you would want to play with, rather than against. With a good full pre season this time round and the experience of both the Championship and the 8s he will no doubt be a valuable asset to our Club.”
Leigh Centurions Head Coach Paul Rowley said: “Reni is a great player who will add versatility and strike to our squad. I am looking forward to him joining the team and being a part of another successful year for the Centurions.”
