Wigan Warriors have re-signed New Zealand international Thomas Leuluai after the hooker's four-year stint in the NRL.
Sky Sports' Jenna Brooks reported in May that the 31-year-old was looking to make a return to Super League, with Wigan and St Helens both keen to sign the Auckland-born star. This week it was confirmed Leuluai will join the Wigan squad in time for the 2017 season, and transition to an assistant coach role when he concludes his playing career.
Leuluai returns to the Warriors after four years with NRL side New Zealand Warriors, during which time he won 38 international caps at hooker.
"It was always part of our long-term plans for Tommy to return to Wigan," said chairman Ian Lengan. "We have remained in contact over the last few years and it is clear that he still has a great affinity for the Wigan club.
"Tommy was invited back to Wigan during last year to help him rehabilitate after injury and to contribute to the coaching and team spirit of the players.
"He was always a natural leader on and off the pitch previously but his time in New Zealand and the NRL has improved these qualities even further. We believe his maturity, leadership, positional flexibility and strength will make him an excellent addition to the Wigan squad."
Leuluai said: "With my wife being from Wigan and us having a newborn baby, I thought for my family it would be better for us to be back in England.
!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."