Helping Wigan Warriors Claim the Rugby League World Club Challenge Title Not Enough for Kruise Leeming
Kruise Leeming’s ambitions extend far beyond Wigan Warriors’ recent triumph in the Rugby League World Club Challenge. The hooker, who joined the club at the end of last season following a stint with the Gold Coast Titans in the NRL, is eager to help the Warriors claim more trophies this season.
With a Challenge Cup semi-final clash against Hull Kingston Rovers on the horizon and a burning desire to retain the League Leaders’ Shield and Super League trophy, Leeming is driven to make the most of his four-year deal at the DW Stadium.
“At a club like Wigan, if we said we weren’t looking to win more trophies, people would see through it and know we were lying,” Leeming told Love Rugby League. “Coming here to Wigan was a very big move for me, and I feel I’ve made the best decision, as it’s exceeded my expectations.”
Leeming, who scored in Wigan’s World Club Challenge victory over the Penrith Panthers, stressed the importance of maintaining a humble approach despite the team’s recent success.
“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.”
The 28-year-old, who made his name at Huddersfield Giants before joining Leeds Rhinos and helping them win the 2020 Challenge Cup, emphasized the need for constant improvement and a relentless pursuit of the highest standards.
“As a professional sportsperson, you have to be constantly striving for the highest possible standards every single day,” Leeming said.
With Wigan firmly established as title contenders once again, Leeming is focused on finding his role within the team and making the most of his opportunities, whether it’s starting, playing 80 minutes, or coming off the bench to provide a different dynamic.
“It’s about finding my role in the team and I want to be as effective as possible by bringing a different dynamic,” he added.
As Wigan prepare to face Leeming’s former club, Huddersfield Giants, the Warriors’ new recruit is relishing the challenge, acknowledging that every team will be eager to test themselves against the reigning champions.
“I’ve been in that other dressing room and you can see the lift in intensity when teams face the top sides,” Leeming said. “That’s something we won’t shy away from and it brings the best out in us.”
With the potential impact of former Leeds team-mate Sam Walters, who could make his first senior appearance for Wigan, Leeming is excited to share the journey with his friend, knowing that the depth of the Warriors’ squad will provide Matty Peet with some difficult but welcome selection decisions.
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