Leuluai returns to Super League with Warriors

The fans’ favourite, who joined the NRL’s New Zealand Warriors at the end of 2012, will return for the 2017 season, with a view to take up a coaching role once he hangs up his boots in ‘a few years’.

Leuluai, a half-back and hooker, quickly became a favourite at the DW Stadium after joining from Harlequins in 2007, particularly for his uncompromising defence.

The 2008 World Cup winner described returning to Wigan as a ‘no-brainer’, with the Warriors winning the race to his signature after reported interest from other Super League clubs – including arch rivals St Helens.

Leuluai said: “I had a bit of a look around in Super League but, as soon as I knew that Wigan were interested, it was a no-brainer to be honest.

“I’ve got a lot of close friends at Wigan and I really love the club and its history.

“With my wife being from Wigan and us having a new-born baby, I thought for my family it would be better for us to be back in England.

“I really enjoyed my time there and I look forward to coming back and representing the club with the pride and the passion that it deserves and to winning some more trophies before moving on to a career in coaching.”

Wigan’s mission to capture Leuluai’s signature was first reported by Wigan Today on June 1.

In his first stint at Wigan he lifted a Challenge Cup, two League Leaders’ Shields and a Grand Final winner’s ring.

He also picked up the Harry Sunderland trophy for his display in Warriors’ 22-10 Grand Final win over St Helens in 2010.

A Kiwi international with 38 caps, Leuluai’s return excites coach Shaun Wane.

“Tommy is a fantastic player that needs little introduction to the Wigan fans. Hard-hitting, tough and uncompromising, he is a player that really leads from the front,” he said.

“His very presence just improves us.”