The Perth Bears have continued to build their roster ahead of their 2027 debut, securing England international prop Mikolaj Oledzki on a three-year deal running through to the end of 2029.
Currently playing for the Leeds Rhinos, the 27-year-old becomes the 16th player confirmed for the Bears’ inaugural squad as the new franchise continues assembling a competitive roster for its first NRL campaign.
In early February, Oledzki denied rumours linking him to the new NRL side for 2027, saying he was happy at Leeds Rhinos.
England International Heads to the NRL
Born in Gdańsk, Poland, Oledzki moved to England as a child and has since developed into one of the most consistent middle forwards in the Super League.
Across his professional career he has played nearly 200 first-class matches, including 157 appearances for Leeds, while also spending loan spells with the Bradford Bulls and Featherstone Rovers earlier in his career.
At international level, Oledzki has represented England national rugby league team, featuring in the 2025 Ashes series and building a growing Test career.
Meninga Welcomes Key Forward Signing
Perth coach Mal Meninga said he had long admired the front-rower’s game and believes he will strengthen the Bears’ pack.
“Mik is a dynamic player who has established himself as one of the consistent prop forwards in the Super League competition,” Meninga said.
“I’ve admired his game for a long time, and I am thrilled to welcome Mik and his young family to Western Australia in 2027.”
Oledzki said the move to Australia represented a long-held ambition.
“It’s been an ambition of mine to test myself in the NRL and I am delighted to have the opportunity to do it with Mal Meninga and the Perth Bears,” he said.
“The roster is starting to take shape and it’s exciting to think about playing in front of our fans in Perth.”
Leeds Connection Growing
Oledzki will join fellow Leeds players Harry Newman and James McDonnell, who have already committed to the Bears, giving the club a strong English contingent heading into its inaugural season.
The powerful front-rower also brings valuable experience to a forward pack that already includes established NRL names such as Scott Sorensen, Josh Curran and Siosifa Talakai.
Perth Bears – Confirmed Signings (Current)
- Tyran Wishart – until end of 2031
- Liam Henry – until end of 2030
- Sean Russell – until end of 2030
- Josh Curran – until end of 2029
- Nick Meaney – until end of 2029
- Siosifa Talakai – until end of 2029
- Mikolaj Oledzki – until end of 2029
- Toby Sexton – until end of 2028
- Harry Newman – until end of 2028
- Luke Smith – until end of 2028
- Emarly Bitungane – until end of 2028
- Iszac Fa’asuamaleaui – until end of 2028
- James McDonnell – until end of 2028
- Chris Vea’ila – until end of 2028
- Luke Laulilii – until end of 2028
- Scott Sorensen – until end of 2028
Related
- 2026 NRL: Squads and Player Movements https://rugbyleaguezone.com/2026-nrl-squads-and-player-movements-392225/
- Perth Bears Expansion
