MATT Moylan will relish the opportunity to elevate Leigh Leopards to new heights in 2024.

The 32-year-old Australian playmaker completed his first day of training with the Challenge Cup holders this week.

Apart from the cold snap, Moylan is already enjoying his new adventure after 11 years in the NRL with Penrith and Cronulla.

“I have plenty of experience to bring across,” he told Journal Sport after returning to the UK for the first time since 2016 when part of the Kangaroos’ Four Nations squad.

“I want to work hard, play good footie and help steer Leigh in the direction they started last season,” added a player likened to Green and Gold legend, Darren Lockyer earlier in his career.

“We have a lot of work to do to put ourselves in a position to be playing in those bigger games at the end of the season. But hopefully I can add to the squad.

“The standard, however, of Super League is really high. St Helens beating Penrith in Australia to become world champions was impressive to watch.

“Every team is willing to throw a lot of attack and I am excited to be a part of it.”

Moylan’s partnership with Lachlan Lam-still resting after his autumn international exploits with Papua New Guinea-is potentially an explosive one.

“He is a talented player who I am looking forward to playing alongside. He is someone I have got to build a combination with so hopefully, we can hit the ground running when he returns to training.

“I just want to complement him and build on what the boys started last season,” added Moylan, who has been reacquainted with ex Penrith team mate, Zak Harder, plus Rickie Leutele and Kai O’Donnell from their Cronulla days.

Moylan replaces Ben Reynolds in the halves though he can also cover full-back without issues. He may also land Reynolds’ kicking duties.

“I have kicked previously,” he confirmed. “So, I could do it if required but I will need to do some work to deserve to be in that role.

“It is all about getting the reps in and making sure I am confident and striking the ball well.”

Moylan and his new team mates now know they will start their assault on Super League in 2024 at home to Huddersfield Giants on Friday, February 16. When they met in Leopards’ penultimate home fixture of 2023, a floodlight failure led the game to be played over a near 48-hour period.

Moving Magic Weekend from Newcastle to August dates in Leeds has met with lukewarm approval. However, Adrian Lam’s side will open day two at Elland Road against Salford on August 18.