Return of Sam Burgess exactly what the NRL and South Sydney Rabbitohs need

SAM Burgess’ return to the NRL is a massive boost not just for the South Sydney Rabbitohs but for the game of rugby league.

Sam Burgess winner of the Clive Churchill medalist in the NRL Grand Final between South Sydney Rabbitohs v Canterbury Bulldogs at ANZ Stadium. pic. Phil Hillyard

SAM Burgess’ return to the NRL is a massive boost not just for the Rabbitohs but for the entire game.

The 2014 grand final hero will not only put respect and intimidation back into the South Sydney pack but also get turnstiles clicking because of his standing as a marquee player.

Women love Sam Burgess. He’s a heart-throb figure and the most popular Englishman to play rugby league in this country.

He has the feel and presence of a Sonny Bill Williams or a Jarryd Hayne.

All that is left now for Souths to squeeze him into the salary cap.

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Obviously players will have to go to make way for the champion forward although he will play for a reduced figure in the first year of a back ended contract.

Will Greg Inglis (L) or Sam Burgess (R) skipper the South Sydney Rabbitohs in 2016? Picture: Gregg Porteous

Burgess’ return will ensure the Rabbitohs are in a position to again challenge for the title.

He was missed both on and off the field last year. The club culture was never the same from the moment he left to chase his dream at the rugby union World Cup.

Let’s just say the Rabbitohs didn’t have an internal prescription drug problem while Burgess was at the club as the face of the player group alongside Greg Inglis.

Burgess should also be named as the Rabbitohs’ captain because it is a role that appeared to fit uncomfortably with Inglis and affected the champion full-back’s form.

Originally published as Return of Sam Burgess exactly what the NRL and South Sydney Rabbitohs need