The signing of New Zealand international Isaac Liu on a two-year contract was one of the biggest in the club’s recent history. Isaac, one of the NRL’s most experienced forwards, had completed 12 seasons as a regular in the competition by playing his 272^nd and final game for Gold Coast Titans against Penrith Panthers in 2024. As a hard-working and ultra-consistent prop or second rower with great leadership qualities, he has long been highly rated at the top level of the game.

Auckland born, Isaac made his NRL debut for Sydney Roosters in 2013 and was a key figure in the club’s back-to-back Premiership-winning sides of 2018 and 2019.  After making 203 appearances for the Roosters, he then spent three seasons with the Titans.

Isaac made his international debut for Samoa in 2014, representing the country of his heritage in the Four Nations tournament that year. More recently he has represented birth nation New Zealand, representing the Kiwis in both the 2017 and 2022 World Cup tournaments. His final appearance for New Zealand was in their 16-14 World Cup semi-final defeat to Australia at Elland Road in 2022.

Appointed joint captain alongside Lachlan Lam, he made his Leopards debut in the Challenge Cup tie at Workington Town and went on to become one of three ever-presents throughout the season. His efforts were recognised with the award as Coaches’ Player of the Year.