NRL Bears sign Indigenous star Curran
Indigenous rugby league Allstar Josh Curran is to head west and join the Perth Bears in 2027, becoming the eighth signing by the new NRL club.
Curran, from the Darug community in Sydney, officially confirmed on Wednesday he would head west after finishing with the Bulldogs this year.
It makes him the only player signed so far with more than 100 games of NRL experience, with the Indigenous All-Star to head up the pack alongside Liam Henry.
Curran said it was an opportunity he could not refuse.
Curran, 26, will have the ability to play both prop and back row for the Bears, with the versatility viewed as crucial in building a maiden roster.
“This is an exciting opportunity that I just couldn’t pass up,” Curran said.
Who is Josh Curran
- Born Sydney June 11, 1999
- Plays second row, lock or back row currently for the Canterbury Bulldogs in the NRL
- Previously played for Sydney Roosters and New Zealand Warriors
- From Darug community in Sydney
- Represented Indigenous Allstars in four games 2020-2024, scoring one try
- Made debut in 2019 for Roosters v Canberra Raiders
- 106 NRL career appearances
“The chance to be a part of the Bears’ inaugural squad, to have my name as one of their first signings, is surreal.
“I’m passionate about getting out in the community, and to have the opportunity to create something from the ground up that can inspire a whole State also motives me.
Indigenous All-Star Josh Curran is heading west to join the Bears.
“This is history for our game and I’m super excited to be a part of it.”
“Josh brings a unique combination of skill and finesse with the ball, along with tenacity in defence,” Perth coach Mal Meninga said.
“He plays with intensity and a commitment to make his teammates shine.
“I couldn’t be more impressed with Josh off the field too. He is a leader who spends countless hours investing back into the community.”
