At just 25 years old, Jacob Alick-Wiencke has just secured a major move in his career: a three-year contract to join Leigh Leopards beginning in 2026. This signing is one of the bold statements of intent from Leigh as they look to strengthen their squad.
With a background of NRL experience, strong Queensland Cup credentials, and 10 international caps for Papua New Guinea, Alick-Wiencke represents both talent and upside.
Early Career & Queensland Cup Journey
Before breaking into the NRL system, Alick-Wiencke built his foundations in the Queensland Cup, representing:
- Souths Logan Magpies in 2021
- Burleigh Bears in 2022–2023
- Tweed Seagulls in 2024–2025
Across those stints, he showcased his hard running, work ethic, and consistency — traits which have clearly caught the eye of recruiters.
His steady progression through the second tier demonstrates that he made the most of the pathway system to push toward first grade.
NRL Experience with Gold Coast Titans
Jacob’s leap to first grade came when he joined the Gold Coast Titans, where he played 19 matches over multiple seasons.
While opportunities in the NRL were limited, these appearances provided him exposure to the top level of competition and helped refine his skills against elite forwards and attackers.
At the end of the 2025 season, he was released by the Titans, making him available for recruitment.
Papua New Guinea International Career
On the international stage, Alick-Wiencke has already earned 10 caps for Papua New Guinea (the Kumuls).
His selection for PNG underscores his ability to compete at a high level, and his heritage connection (through his grandmother) gives added meaning to those appearances.
His international experience will not only boost his confidence but also raise his profile in the Super League.
What Leigh Leopards Get in Alick-Wiencke
By bringing him in on a three-year deal, Leigh Leopards are getting:
- A young forward with growth potential
- International experience and the mindset of competing on big occasions
- Exposure to both Queensland Cup and NRL systems — a hybrid blend of toughness and adaptability
- A link to PNG for the club (helpful for recruiting in the Pacific and establishing international ties)
For Leigh, this is a move that combines vision (long term) and depth (immediate squad reinforcement).
Potential Impact & What to Watch
- Integration into the pack: Will he slot into the back row, edge forward, or rotate in the middle?
- Adjustment to Super League: Adapting to the tempo, style, and travel demands in England
- Further international involvement: PNG fans will watch closely to see how he balances club vs national duty
- Development trajectory: Year by year, fans and coaches will hope to see steady improvement in physicality, defence, ball-playing
Reaction & Club Context
Leigh’s head coach, Adrian Lam, has publicly confirmed his interest in Alick-Wiencke, noting that he’s long tracked the Papua New Guinea forward.
Lam’s PNG roots and connections may have helped foster trust in the deal.
For Leigh, already competing in Super League and seeking to make deeper playoff runs, this signing signals ambition.
