Josh Charnley still targeting top spot in Super League try-scorers list after Leigh move

Experienced winger Josh Charnley says he still has desires of reaching top spot in Super League’s all-time try-scorers list despite moving to Championship outfit Leigh.

Charnley, who turned 31 last week, is third in that list as things stand. He has crossed 203 times in the top division of European rugby league. Top of the tree is Danny McGuire (247), now a coach at Hull KR, with Ryan Hall – still active in Super League with KR – also hunting him down. Hall has 223 tries to his name at present.

New Leigh man Charnley started 2022 like a train. He scored a brace in each of Warrington’s first four games of the campaign, totalling eight tries.

After being cast aside at the Wire though, the winger now must achieve Championship promotion with Leigh before he even has chance of adding to his tally, though he remains confident.

“I was coming close to it [the record] and got over the 200 mark. It was a big focus for me and then the games got cut off me in Super League,” Charnley told Leigh’s YouTube channel.

“When we’re there next year with Leigh, I’ll be striving for it. I’m here for the good time. I want to get Leigh into Super League, and I want to be a part of the team who can keep them up.

“I think they’re building really well here, and I’m just glad to be a part of it. The boys have made me feel really welcome, and it’s been good to get out on the field with them to see what they’re all about.

“I’ve seen some of them play over the years, and just seeing them on the paddock training, they’ve got a bit of skill about them. It’s exciting times for the club and for me as a player.”

Wigan-born Charnley started his career with his hometown club. Winning three Grand Finals and two Challenge Cups during his time at the D.W