The Burgess Brothers: A Rugby League Legacy
In the world of rugby league, the Burgess brothers have long been revered as the gold standard for English front-rowers. Sam, Tom, and George Burgess were a formidable trio, embodying the spirit of the game for both their national team and the beloved South Sydney Rabbitohs. However, as the old adage goes, all good things must come to an end, and the Burgesses have gradually faded from their peak performances in recent years.
Eldest brother Luke Burgess retired in 2018 after a stint with the Salford Red Devils, while Sam Burgess has transitioned into a coaching role with the Warrington Wolves. Tom Burgess, on the other hand, is set to make a homecoming in 2025, joining the Huddersfield Giants for the first time in his playing career. Sadly, the youngest Burgess brother, George, was forced to retire in 2022 due to a serious hip injury that plagued the latter stages of his illustrious career.
“During his time in the NRL, George Burgess amassed an impressive tally of 153 games, scoring 13 tries, and also represented England on 15 occasions, finding the try line twice.”
However, it appears the retirement was short-lived, as a recent report from the Daily Telegraph suggests that the former England international is set for a surprise return to the rugby league scene.
A Surprising Comeback
According to the report, Burgess has been cleared by the South Sydney Junior Rugby League board to play the remainder of the 2023 season with the Malabar-based South Eastern Seagulls A-grade side. This unexpected comeback comes two years after his initial retirement from the professional game, during which he has pursued a career in acting, including work with South Sydney co-owner, Russell Crowe.
The return of George Burgess to the rugby league arena is sure to energize fans of the sport, particularly those with a soft spot for the Rabbitohs and the Burgess legacy. As the sport continues to evolve, this surprise move by the former England Test forward will undoubtedly capture the attention of rugby league enthusiasts across the globe.
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