Charnley celebration signals new deal with Leigh

Josh Charnley celebrates a tryImage source, SWPIX
Image caption,

Josh Charnley was a Challenge Cup winner with Leigh Leopards in 2023

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Super League's all-time leading try-scorer Josh Charnley chose an opportune moment to tell the world he has extended his stay with Leigh Leopards - signing a mock-up of a contract while celebrating a try against St Helens.

Charnley registered his 281st Super League try to open the scoring in Friday's Super League fixture against Saints, and then Leigh confirmed, external that the 35-year-old will play on into the 2027 campaign.

Former England winger Charnley said: "At the beginning of the year, I spoke to my family and said this might be my last, but coming into the year, I got my body right, so I put it on Derek [Beaumont, owner] and Lammy's [Adrian Lam, head coach] toes and said I wanted to go round again.

"I'm happy to be staying at this club and I'm grateful for the opportunity they've given me.

"It's a good club to be at - I speak about it all the time. They're going places and I'm glad to still be a part of it."

Leigh's 48-10 win against Saints confirmed their spot in the end-of-season play-offs, which begin later this month.

Former Wigan and Warrington player Charnley claimed the Super League try record in June, overtaking Leeds winger and former England team-mate Ryan Hall.

Josh Charnley signs a mock contract while celebrating a tryImage source, SWPIX
Image caption,

Charnley signed a mock-up of a contract after scoring a try for Leigh against St Helens on Friday