Sometimes, a brand new signing is exactly what a team needs to take them to the next level. Whether it’s a boost in creativity, a prop to drive you down field or a reliable workhorse who’ll set the tone for an unbeatable defensive line – a new player can add so much more than strength in depth.
The same goes for the player too. It can be a guy who’s been great, dropped off and needs a new challenge or coach to rekindle that quality. It’s crazy the amount of players that make moves and look complete different for their new side.
Here are five shrewd Super League pickups I think could prove pivotal signings for their new clubs.
1. Zak Hardaker
Embed from Getty ImagesFrom Leeds Rhinos to Leigh Leopards
A newly promoted side signing a former Man of Steel winner is only positive. While Hardaker does have his baggage, this is a win-win situation for Leigh and if he settles, is happy and concentrates solely on his rugby. This could turn out to be one of the better signings between English clubs in 2023. Not forgetting he was apart of the Leeds, Castleford and Wigan sides that made Grand Finals. He brings a serious winning mentality to the group.
2. Jake Connor
Embed from Getty ImagesFrom Hull FC to Huddersfield Giants
No one can deny the quality of Jake Connor. He does things on a rugby pitch that are simply outrageous. However, I don’t know if it’s his attitude or situation at Hull, but he could never be consistently on top of his game. He only did it in spurts here and there. This move is best for all parties, but one that he can really shine from. Under a coach like Watson, who strives to get the best from his players, Connor could be a huge signing for the Giants.
3. Oliver Partington
Embed from Getty ImagesFrom Wigan Warriors to Salford Red Devils
I still think Wigan letting Partington go is a deal that will come back to bite them. Since the 2019 season, he’s been one of the better young players at Wigan and in the league. It felt like he never got much of a chance in 2022, but he played only three games less than he did in an impressive 2021 season. He is a player who needs a run of games from a starting position, and he’ll get that at Salford, a place where he will shine and be a huge player for in 2023.
4. Liam Sutcliffe
Embed from Getty ImagesFrom Leeds Rhinos to Hull FC
This was one transfer that really shocked a lot of people. For Leeds to let one of their better players go to a rival Super League side, is just odd. Sutcliffe who’s been on the scene since 2012, after coming through their youth system, has racked over 200 games for the Rhinos, winning a Grand Final and two Challenge Cups. The signing is a huge coup for the black and whites, and a real loss for Leeds going into the 2023 season.
5. Tom Johnstone
Embed from Getty ImagesFrom Wakefield Trinity to Catalan Dragons
Going back to 2016 and Tom Johnstone was one of the hottest young wingers in the league. He had an impressive season scoring 20 tries in 25 games for Trinity. He bettered that in 2018 with 24 tries in 24 games. Since that campaign he’s only mustered 41 appearances having been plagued with injuries. It’s a real shame, as he is an unbelievable finisher, one of the best in Super League. If he can stay it, he could be one of the top try scorers in 2023.
There are a few who’ve just missed out on this list. All the Jake’s, in Trueman, Bibby and Wardle. Justin Sangare, Jack Hughes and Toby King. I think there’s been a lot of good business done this off season. With moves that suit all parties.
It’s going to be very interesting to see how these squads get on in 2023.
Let us know who you think is good business and who will stand out at their new club in the new season.
