TOM Briscoe allowed himself a chuckle or two when he discovered the identity of Leigh’s opening pre season opponents.

While he has nothing to prove against Leeds Rhinos on January 21 at Leigh Sports Village (kick-off 3pm), the former Headingley favourite hopes his new Leopards’ team mates can put down a marker for the 2023 Super League campaign.

Briscoe, 32, spent nine years at Leeds, making more than 200 appearances, scoring nearly 100 tries and winning six major trophies.

“I started laughing; you couldn’t write, it could you,” said the ex-England winger of next month’s head-to-head for the Bev Risman Trophy.

“I am still in touch with all the lads so we will probably get stuck into each other in the weeks leading upto the game. But it will all in good fun.

“It will be a tough game. Leeds were Grand Finalists last season and have made some decent signings since.

“But it is one we are looking forward to. It will show where we are as a team and as a group.

“We can go in looking to show our best hand and see where we match up against one of the best teams in Super League.”

Briscoe has broken new ground with his move to the Leopards having previously spent his career based in Yorkshire; firstly at Hull FC and then at Leeds.

“The travel was a big thing in coming over to Leigh,” he agreed. “I knew it was going to be part of it but I accepted that.

“There are five of us: myself, Zak Hardaker, Joe Wardle, Ben Reynolds and Jacob Gannon, who car share. So, it is not too bad at all.

“And I am enjoying it; coming into a new environment, with a new squad and a new coach in Adrian Lam.

“’Lammy’ has been very good to deal with. He’s a very smart and knowledgeable guy which goes with the level of coaching he has achieved with Australia. So, it’s all been good.

“Pre-season is pretty similar to what I have been used to. The aim is to get fitter, faster, stronger,” explained Briscoe whose final season with Leeds was interrupted by a troublesome ankle problem.

“The injury dragged on and I had a few complications. But I got back for the back end of the season and played in the Grand Final.

“All those issues are in the past, so I am really looking forward to getting stuck in now next year.”

Tickets are now on sale for the Rhinos’ visit which will also feature Zak Hardaker against his former paymasters while it brings a quick return to LSV for ex Leigh star, Nene Macdonald.