Leigh Leopards winger Josh Charnley has signed a new contract to stay with the Super League club through the 2027 season, announcing the extension in dramatic fashion by celebrating a try against St Helens with a mock-up of the deal. The 35-year-old, who set the competition's all-time try-scoring record earlier this year, had considered retiring but decided to continue after working on his fitness during the off-season, giving Leigh continuity in a key attacking role as the club continues to build its profile in the sport.

Charnley scored his 281st Super League try to open the scoring in Friday's match against Saints, prompting the club to confirm the new deal shortly afterwards. The former England, Wigan and Warrington winger overtook Leeds' Ryan Hall to claim the Super League try-scoring record in June, and said he had told his family at the start of the year that this season might be his last before deciding to "go round again" after discussions with owner Derek Beaumont and head coach Adrian Lam.