South Sydney star Dane Gagai says he can’t wait to see his old mate Greg Inglis return to action with Warrington.
The Wolves raised eyebrows in both hemispheres when announcing the signing of Gagai’s one-time Queensland and Rabbitohs colleague.
The 2013 World Cup winner will come out of retirement to play in Super League on a one-year deal next season, by which time he will be 34.
Inglis retired in April 2019, having played 39 Tests, won ten Origin series and claimed three NRL titles, with Melbourne (2007 and 2009) and South Sydney (2014).
He had suffered both knee and shoulder problems, but Gagai says the break from playing will have helped Inglis recharge his batteries.
“Greg is one of the most professional players and trainers around, he works so hard, and I think his body just needed a bit of a break,” said Gagai.
“The time out will have given him time to heal all the niggly injuries, and knowing Greg, he wouldn’t have signed if he didn’t think he could perform to the level needed.
“He gave me a call to let me know what was happening, and I couldn’t be happier for the big fella.
“He’s a legend of the game, and it was great to hear he is lacing up his boots again to give it another crack. I can’t wait to see his first game for Warrington.”
George Williams, the former Wigan halfback now playing for in the NRL for Canberra, believes that, if firing on all cylinders, Inglis will be a huge hit in Super League.
He said: “Greg Inglis is one of the greatest-ever NRL players and if he’s fit and well and can get back to his best in Super League, he’ll be loved.
“The English game needs a few superstars to bring people in, and he’s in that bracket.”
Williams’ Canberra teammate Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad added: “I’m looking forward to seeing a bit more of Greg Inglis.
“He’s such a great player and such a strong ball runner. Kids in Warrington will watch him, then go and mimic him when they are playing rugby in the park.”
Former NRL, Wolves and Toronto forward Ashton Sims tweeted: “Huge signing, one of the best RL players of our generation.
“Get him fit, get him firing and us Warrington fans are in for a real treat.”
