Joe Ofahengaue Unlikely to Debut for Leigh Leopards This Week, Says Coach Adrian Lam
Leigh Leopards head coach Adrian Lam has admitted that new signing Joe Ofahengaue is unlikely to make his debut this week. The experienced forward recently joined the Leopards after parting ways with NRL side Parramatta Eels.
Ofahengaue, who agreed to a three-and-a-half-year deal with Leigh, is expected to arrive in the north west of England this week. Although the 29-year-old is fully match-fit—having featured in six games for the Eels this season, starting in all but one—his debut will probably be delayed as he adjusts to his new surroundings. His last NRL appearance came against the Canberra Raiders on April 12.
While Leigh fans won’t have to wait too long to see Ofahengaue in action, Lam believes it’s unlikely he’ll be ready in time for Saturday’s clash with Salford Red Devils. A more realistic target for the Tongan international’s first appearance is the Magic Weekend fixture against Catalans Dragons.
With a packed schedule ahead—including a Challenge Cup semi-final against Warrington Wolves and critical league games versus Wigan Warriors and Hull FC—Leigh will benefit greatly once Ofahengaue is settled and available for selection.
“He’ll be on a plane next week,” Lam told Total RL after Leigh’s Rivals Round win over Warrington. “We’ll see if he makes it in time for Salford, but I think it’s a bit of a long shot.”
“I’d love to get him on the pitch as quickly as we can, whether that’s starting or coming off the bench. It will all depend on when he arrives and how ready he is, but we’ll assess and make a call when the time comes.”
Lam praised the qualities the former State of Origin player brings to the squad, noting his leadership and high standards as invaluable traits for the Leopards’ Super League campaign.
Ofahengaue arrives at Leigh with a wealth of experience, boasting over 200 NRL games across stints with the Brisbane Broncos, Wests Tigers, and most recently, the Eels. Internationally, he has represented Tonga seven times and has made three appearances for Queensland in the State of Origin series.
His impending arrival is a major boost for the Leopards, who will be looking to make a strong push through the business end of the season.
