Media sources in both Australia and the UK say that Gareth Ellis will quit Super League to join West Tigers.
Gareth Ellis, a figure-head of Leeds Rhinos rugby league for the past few seasons, is set to quit Super League in favour of a move to West Tigers in the NRL, it is believed.
Last chance to test himself
Ellis, who is still only 26, has many years ahead of him, and while he is still at the pinnacle of his career, obviously sees the move as a chance to test himself in a more ferocious and competitive league.
Last year he was part of the Leeds Grand Final winning side, while also winning the Grand Final winning medal in 2006. Furthermore, Ellis has collected a Challenge Cup runners-up medal to his collection of regalia over the years.
Wests had an average season in 2007, but have the likes of Brett Hodgson and Benji Marshall in their ranks that will enable them to pursue major honours in the NRL competition this season.
Ellis' British rugby league career comes to conclusion.....for now
Ellis was born in Castleford, on May 3rd 1981. As a youngster he played for local amateur side Castleford Lock Lane, where his ability was noticed by Wakefield Trinity Wildcat scouts.
From there, he joined up with the academy side at Belle Vue and worked his way up into the senior side where he became one of the most popular players. It was clear that he had the talent and potential to go far.
He broke into the Wildcats' first team at the turn of the millennium, earning over 100 appearances for the West Yorkshire side, and also earning the accolade of being the first international player produced by Wakefield since Michael Jackson, after earning Great Britain honours on the back of some excellent performances in 2003.
Shortly after though, it was clear that Ellis wanted to taste the success, and therefore, with no disrespect to Wakefield, the opportunities were limited considering the club spent the majority of the league at the lower end of the table.
At the end of 2004, Leeds made Ellis an offer he couldn't refuse and he moved to the club in time for their World Club Challenge tie against Canterbury Bulldogs.
Ellis has persevered with himself, and intends to maximise his potential abroad, after his three-year stay at Headingley.
And on to the positives.
Ellis' move is by no means a negative. A talented player with his ability will be extremely invaluable to the Tigers in 2008. Furthermore, working with top class players can only benefit his performances on the international scene, despite it being a year too late for the World Cup.
