Impressive Performers Shine in Super League’s Centre Positions in 2024
As the 2024 Super League season concluded, several players stood out for their consistent and dominant displays in the centre positions. Let’s take a closer look at the seven best stars we witnessed in the #3 and #4 spots this year.
7. Adam Keighran (Wigan Warriors)
Australian ace Keighran had a shaky start to his first season with the Wigan Warriors, but seemed to find his stride as the campaign progressed. His performances towards the end of the year and through the playoffs were among the finest we’ve seen from him in a Warriors jersey. If Keighran can maintain this form into 2025 and continue to excel as Wigan’s primary goal-kicker, both he and the club will be in for another successful year.
6. Ricky Leutele (Leigh Leopards)
Despite his age, the veteran Leutele has been one of the standout centres in Super League this year, just as he was for the Leigh Leopards in 2023 before his injury. Known for his physicality and hard-running style, the 34-year-old consistently makes a significant impact in attack with his aggressive ball-carrying and offloading ability, while also being a rock in defence.
5. Tim Lafai (Salford Red Devils)
Lafai, the Samoa international, continues to impress for the Salford Red Devils, consistently breaking through defensive lines with strong and direct runs, drawing in defenders and displaying excellent offloading skills. His ability to link up with Salford’s backline has been instrumental in Paul Rowley’s side’s success, and he rarely lets them down in defence either.
4. Rodrick Tai (Warrington Wolves)
Tai arrived in Super League at Warrington this year as a bit of an unknown quantity, but has quickly made a name for himself as one of the competition’s most physically dominant centres. His size and robust tackling style have proven invaluable, particularly when the Wolves were defending close to their own line, as the Papua New Guinea international relentlessly hunted down opponents.
3. Peta Hiku (Hull KR)
Hull KR boss Willie Peters’ decision to move Hiku into the centres from full-back early in the season proved to be a necessary and successful switch. The veteran has impressed week in, week out, with his dangerous running and incisive plays earning the Robins plenty of points. Hiku‘s positional sense and rugby league intelligence have also been crucial in shutting down opposition attacks.
2. Nene Macdonald (Salford Red Devils)
Papua New Guinean Macdonald narrowly misses out on the top spot, but the 30-year-old is one of the most physically imposing centres in the competition. His size, power, and speed make him a constant threat in attack, consistently breaking through tackles and making significant metres. Macdonald‘s leadership qualities and experience have been key factors in Salford’s success this season.
1. Jake Wardle (Wigan Warriors)
Undoubtedly the best centre in Super League, Wardle has been a standout performer for a couple of years now. The Wigan star is dynamic with the ball in hand, able to break tackles with ease and make strong runs. His link-up play with Liam Marshall is a constant threat, earning the Warriors countless tries. Wardle‘s attacking flair, combined with his strong rugby league IQ in defence, make him a virtually unstoppable force when he’s at his best. The 24-year-old is tied down at Wigan until the end of 2029, much to the delight of boss Matt Peet.
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