It has been confirmed that the Leigh Centurions will replace the Toronto Wolfpack for the Superleague 2021 season after they were determined to have entered the most complete and appealing bid of the six sides who were hoping to play in the topflight next season.
Without playing a ball, or making a tackle, Leigh were chosen ahead of Bradford Bulls, Featherstone Rovers, London Broncos, Toulouse Olympique and York City Knights, much to the delight of their fans, players and administrators.
Coach John Duffy now has a small window during which to strengthen his side ahead of the start of the competition on the 11th March 2021, a time when hopefully there will be some spectators allowed inside stadia.
Leigh have been absent from the topflight for the last three seasons after being relegated in 2017 when they lost the Million Pound game to the Catalans Dragons by a score line of 26-10 at the Leigh Sports Village at the end of a very disappointing season.
The independent panel deliberated on all six bids and made their decision based on strict criteria and it is understood that all were of high quality. The panel issued a unanimous decision based on the completeness of the Leigh bid, their financial security and their Superleague quality stadium.
Leigh will receive just £1million from central funding, just over half that the amount that the other eleven sides receive. Owner Derek Beaumont will be hoping that they can ride out the 2021 season and be in a position to get a full slice of the 2022 cake, depending on the new TV deal to be done by Superleague.
Exciting times for all involved with Leigh who have been given the best Christmas present possible.
