Leigh Leopards Poised to Welcome Australian Powerhouse Aaron Pene

In a significant move, the Leigh Leopards are set to confirm the signing of Australian prop Aaron Pene, following the departure of Ben Nakubuwai to Featherstone Rovers. This frees up a crucial quota spot for the Super League club.

Earlier this year, Love Rugby League first reported that the 28-year-old Pene had been shopped to English clubs regarding a potential 2024 switch. After a lengthy process, the deal has now come to fruition, with Pene recently granted an early release from his contract with NRL outfit Melbourne Storm.

“Born in Sydney on September 26, 1995, the powerful forward boasts both German and Samoan heritage.”

Pene honed his skills playing junior rugby league for Berala Bears and Chester Hill Hornets before being snapped up by Canterbury Bulldogs in the NRL. The New South Wales native also featured at youth level for Parramatta Eels, and has extensive experience in the New South Wales Cup and Queensland Cup, cementing his status as an elder statesman in the Australian second-tier competitions.

Pene’s NRL resume is equally impressive, with 32 first-grade appearances under his belt for both Melbourne and the New Zealand Warriors. After joining the Storm’s feeder club Brisbane Tigers in 2019, he earned a promotion to the senior squad in 2020, making his NRL debut against St George Illawarra Dragons.

The 28-year-old’s NRL stint includes being part of the Storm’s 2020 championship-winning squad. He would later join the Warriors on a two-year deal in 2022, making 14 appearances for the club before securing an early release to return to Melbourne.

Pene’s time in the Queensland Cup has also been noteworthy, with three of his career tries coming in the competition – one each in 2019, 2021 and 2023. This experience, combined with his NRL pedigree, is sure to make him a valuable addition to the Leigh Leopards’ pack as they prepare for the upcoming Super League season.

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