Burgess in line to become second-most capped Rabbitoh

Jasper Bruce | March 16, 2023

South Sydney prop Thomas Burgess is on track to become the second-most capped Rabbitoh of all time after signing a one-year contract extension.

The 30-year-old Englishman has played his entire 211-game NRL career for Souths and featured in their drought-breaking 2014 premiership victory.

He and Alex Johnston are the only two members of that side who remain with the club.

Burgess, who had been contracted until the end of 2023, has enjoyed a strong first two weeks of the premiership where he has averaged 143 run metres.

“I’m over the moon to be extending my time with Souths. It’s a very special club and I’m honoured to wear the colours every day,” he said.

“Souths has been a big part of my family since moving to Australia. I couldn’t envisage myself playing for any other club in Australia.”

The new one-year deal gives Burgess ample time to reach 236 games and overtake Adam Reynolds as the second-most capped player in the Rabbitohs’ 115-year history.

Against the Sydney Roosters this weekend, Burgess will draw level with Craig Coleman to become the club’s fourth-most capped player. John Sutton, now on the coaching staff, is the most prolific Rabbitoh with 339 appearances.

Burgess’ new deal comes after key players Latrell Mitchell, Cody Walker, Lachlan Ilias and Damien Cook all signed new contracts in the past six months.

First-graders Hame Sele, Liam Knight and Blake Taaffe remain off-contract for 2024.