After a stop-start stint in the NRL, Gold Coast Titans forward Jacob Alick-Wiencke has sealed a fresh start in the Super League with Leigh Leopards, signing a three-year deal that runs until the end of the 2028 season.
The 25-year-old Papua New Guinea international said the move was a chance to reignite his career after struggling for consistent game time in Australia.
Having been named 18th man multiple times without breaking into the Titans’ first team, Alick-Wiencke admitted the situation had become increasingly difficult to handle.
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“A frustrating season” leads to change of scenery
“I’ve been on the fringe in Australia and not had a consistent run of NRL games. I’ve been 18th man about six times, and it’s been a frustrating season,” Alick-Wiencke said from his home in Australia. “When I’m playing my best footy, I feel I’m good enough to get in the NRL side.”
The versatile forward joins Leigh’s growing Papua New Guinean contingent, linking up with international teammates Lachlan Lam and Edwin Ipape under head coach Adrian Lam, a familiar face from Alick-Wiencke’s representative days.
“I’ve known Adrian a long time and been on a few camps with him. He tried to get me to come after the last World Cup, and now I‘m ready to take a big step forward in my career,” he added.
Lam described the recruit as “a player that has a lot of potential, X Factor and is very skilful”, adding that Alick-Wiencke’s arrival underlined Leigh’s intent to strengthen further.
For Alick-Wiencke, the Super League switch offers the stability and opportunity he has long craved, and a chance to turn frustration into fulfilment.