HEATH Cruickshank likes what he's seen so far. Leigh Centurions' Aussie recruit flew into town a few days ago and quickly picked up on the wave of enthusiasm sweeping through Hilton Park. "That's been the most noticeable thing," says the 22-year-old back rower. "For a team that finished last in the comp last season, they all seem up for a better showing this time."

Cruickshank played 16 out of 24 first grade games for Gold Coast Chargers in the NRL last season but found himself without a club when the Queenslanders were withdrawn from this season's competition.

"There were a whole host of blokes scrambling round for clubs. We'd heard rumours part way through the season that the club would fold, but it was only after the last game that the confirmation came through.

"Once I'd had a chat or two with Ian Millward, I knew that Leigh was the club for me. He sold it to me and so far I've not been disappointed."

Cruickshank made a brief debut in Sunday's final pre-season trial but admits he knows a few more training sessions with the rest of the squad before he can start to make a real impact. Born in Tamworth, New South Wales, Cruickshank played Under 19s and 21s with Canterbury Bulldogs before spending a season with South Queensland Crushers and then a year with the Chargers.

"It was always my ambition to play in England, but with the Chargers folding I suppose it came a bit sooner than I expected. It's a tremendous opportunity for me to improve and develop my game in another country.

"I haven't set myself any targets, only to have an injury-free season and help Leigh move up the ladder."

Cruickshank has only signed a one-year deal with Leigh and admits to keeping his options open. "I want to spend a few years over here, hopefully I can do that with Leigh and we can both progress together."

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