Thomas Leuluai refusing to concede 2022 could be his last season as a player

Thomas Leuluai is officially Super League's oldest player: but he has no intention of calling time on his playing career just yet.

Leuluai starts his 20th season as a professional on Friday night when Wigan Warriors face Hull Kingston Rovers. He will turn 37 this summer, and the one-year extension he signed to carry on playing in 2022 has been assumed to be his last.

But, perhaps predictably for a player with Leuluai's determination and spirit, that is not a sentiment the Wigan captain shares after finding himself reinvigorated by the club's new coaching setup, led by Matty Peet.

"I'm not silly, I know it's nearly the end, but I haven't made a call yet," he said.

"I'll play it as I see it - it all depends how the body holds up. It's been refreshing having a new group of coaches, Shaun Wane coming back and Matty at the head of it.

"I've enjoyed the fresh ideas they've brought in, and it's been really good. I've never really had any plans to play to a set age or play on for however many more years. I've always looked at the last three or years like they may be my last.

"I take on the badge as Super League's oldest player as something I'm really proud of. I look after my body, I still compete and I'm not shy about that, I'm proud of it."

One thing Leuluai does concede, however, is the evolution of his role within Wigan's squad in 2022. He is conscious that he will be utilised in a role of starting half-back on some occasions, and others as a mentor to Wigan's younger pivots as they get their opportunity, enabling Leuluai to take a rest.

"I think it's the right thing for the club and myself personally," he admitted. "We've got so many good players and there will be times when my experience is needed, and times when I need a