Wigan Warriors’ Kruise Leeming Seeks More Trophies After World Club Challenge Success
Helping Wigan Warriors claim the coveted title of the world’s best rugby league club side will not be enough for Kruise Leeming this season. The experienced hooker has his sights set on even greater achievements as the Warriors prepare for a Challenge Cup semi-final showdown with Hull Kingston Rovers and their defense of the League Leaders’ Shield and Super League trophy.
Leeming, who joined Wigan at the end of last season following a stint in the NRL with Gold Coast Titans, scored in the Warriors’ famous World Club Challenge win over serial NRL champions Penroth Panthers on February 24. However, the 28-year-old Yorkshireman stressed that such success alone will not satisfy the club’s lofty ambitions.
“At a club like Wigan, if we said we weren’t looking to win more trophies then people would see through it and know we were lying,” Leeming told Love Rugby League. “What club was going to bring the best out of me as a rugby league player and as a character away from the sport? Wigan was the team I felt I could best flourish in, and it’s exceeded my expectations.”
Leeming, who made his name at Huddersfield Giants before stints at Leeds Rhinos and Gold Coast, praised the tight-knit culture instilled by Wigan head coach Matt Peet, emphasizing the importance of humility within the playing group.
“We have a very good culture and that itself brings a humility to the playing group and the environment here,” he explained. “We do want success and more trophies, but we’re still humble enough to be striving to improve and work hard every day.”
As Wigan continue their quest for more silverware, Leeming is determined to carve out his role within the team, whether starting, playing 80 minutes, or coming off the bench to inject pace and dynamism into the attack. With homegrown hooker Brad O’Neill seen as the club’s first-choice starter, Leeming is focused on making the most of his opportunities and becoming the best player he can be.
The Warriors’ Upcoming Challenge
The Warriors’ upcoming trip to Huddersfield Giants, Leeming’s former club, is sure to be a stern test, but the experienced hooker is relishing the challenge.
“Everyone raises their game against us,” he said. “That’s something we won’t shy away from, and it brings the best out in us.”
As Wigan Warriors continue their pursuit of more trophies, Kruise Leeming’s drive and determination will be crucial in their quest for sustained success in the 2023 season and beyond.
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