The long-awaited arrival of the Perth Bears in the National Rugby League has taken a monumental step forward, with the expansion club officially announcing the signing of halfback Toby Sexton and English Test centre Harry Newman for the 2027 season. The historic double signing marks the club’s very first recruitment moves and signals a clear, ambitious vision for establishing a competitive foundation squad ahead of their entry into the NRL.
Coach Mal Meninga, who has been instrumental in shaping the club’s initial roster strategy, expressed full confidence that the duo represents the ideal cornerstones for Perth’s launch into the league. With enormous anticipation surrounding the Bears’ debut, the addition of Sexton and Newman offers both leadership and game-breaking potential to a side aiming to make an immediate impact.
The recruitment of Sexton places him as the early favourite to secure the club’s inaugural halfback role. Known for his game management, work ethic, and ability to guide a team around the park, Sexton brings valuable experience and resilience following his journey across the NRL and Super League. Meanwhile, Newman’s signing introduces international pedigree into the Bears’ backline. Already capped seven times for England, the explosive centre has showcased his abilities in the Super League with Leeds Rhinos, where he developed a reputation as one of Britain’s brightest rugby league talents.
Meninga spoke glowingly about the qualities that made both players standout choices for the club’s formative roster.
"Both players have all the attributes and qualities I'm looking for when building out our roster," Meninga declared.
He continued by emphasising the leadership credentials Sexton brings into the new organisation.
"Toby is a proven leader who works hard to make his teammates better.
"He is a quality person who I know will make the most of the opportunity to be a trailblazer for the Perth Bears."
Turning his attention to Newman, Meninga highlighted the centre’s high-level experience and readiness to embrace the challenge of transitioning into the NRL.
"Harry is a Test player who has been a part of the successful Leeds Rhinos system for several years.
"He has the skillset and experience to make an immediate impact in the NRL, and I'm really excited to see what he can do when he gets here in 2027."
The Bears’ entry into the 2027 season has sparked intense movement across the player market, with the club aggressively evaluating options to shape a competitive and balanced squad. Among their top priorities remains powerhouse forward Tino Fa'asuamaleaui, who has long been linked to the Bears as a potential marquee signing. South Sydney enforcer Keaon Koloamatangi has also emerged as a player of significant interest, while the versatile Melbourne Storm talent Tyran Wishart is expected to meet with the club as part of ongoing recruitment discussions.
However, not all pursuits have gone in Perth’s favour. The Bears have missed out on securing Gold Coast Titans pair Jayden Campbell and Beau Fermor, and several prominent names—such as Herbie Farnworth, Harry Grant, and Josh Addo-Carr—have been removed from the market after finalising commitments to their current clubs.
One of the most intriguing possibilities still lingering is the future of Ryan Papenhuyzen, who has been navigating a career crossroads following his departure from Melbourne and the cancellation of the R360 competition’s 2026 launch. With Papenhuyzen yet to clarify his intentions regarding a return to professional rugby league, the Bears could potentially emerge as a major suitor should he re-enter the marketplace.
For Sexton, his commitment to join the Bears comes as he prepares to complete his contract with Catalans Dragons through the 2026 season. Reflecting on the opportunity to become one of the club's first signings, the young playmaker shared his excitement and gratitude.
"I'm thrilled to have the opportunity to be a part of the inaugural Perth Bears roster," he said.
"To be one of the Bears' first signings is something I'm grateful for. I'm excited for the opportunity and honoured to represent the people of Western Australia."
Harry Newman, who has recorded an impressive 46 tries across 129 games for Leeds since debuting as a teenager, echoed Sexton’s enthusiasm regarding the Bears’ vision and the significance of joining the club at its inception.
"It's always been my ambition to test myself in the NRL and I'm delighted to have the chance to do it with the Perth Bears," Newman stated.
"It's a huge honour to be one of the Bears' first signings and help create a legacy for rugby league in Western Australia".
As the countdown to 2027 continues, the Perth Bears’ early recruitment of Sexton and Newman sends a clear message: the club is determined to build not just a competitive squad, but a legacy-driven organisation capable of inspiring the next generation of rugby league talent in Western Australia. With more signings expected in the coming months and major targets still in play, the Bears are positioning themselves as one of the most talked-about expansion projects in NRL history.
