Wilkin calls Sam Tomkins ‘mental’ and ‘crazy’ after shock decision

Sky Sports analysts were shocked to see the news that Sam Tomkins has returned to Catalans Dragons despite retiring after the 2023 season.

The news broke last night and shocked much of the rugby league world as Tomkins – who ended his career with Catalans Dragons after losing the Grand Final to former team Wigan Warriors – looked settling into life after playing.

He did indeed play a role as a Sky Sports analyst.

During the St Helens vs Warrington Wolves coverage, St Helens and England star Jodie Cunningham said: “That’s breaking news. That’s one I definitely didn’t expect.

“When I spoke to Sam he didn’t say he was missing training per se and that he was constantly physical with his game, so it does surprise me.

“It will be exciting to see what he does now when he steps onto the pitch for Catalans. There has been a lot of disruption and a lot of change there, so let’s see what he can do.”

Brian Carney added: “We’re obviously very close to Sam and he trusts us all because he hasn’t told anyone!”

Jon Wilkin: Sam Tomkins is “mental”

Sam Tomkins as a member of staff at Catalans Dragons, in Plough Lane, Wimbledon

Credit: Imago Images

Jon Wilkin was surprised by the news, saying: “I think it was about two months ago, he said his wife had laid down the law and said he had got into such bad shape that he had to start training. We didn’t know that would bring him out of retirement.

“I think he’s crazy. I think he’s mad, but good for him. Good for him.

“To come into a Catalan team that is struggling so much, of course Sam would always be the answer, but I can’t even put myself in the mindset of doing that.”

Steve McNamara said in the press release, quoted by Brian Carney: “With the time he has had to rest, rehabilitate and freshen up, Sam looked excellent when he took part in our training sessions.

“From a simple question about how he feels about playing again, the flame was lit. I’ve never seen him so excited. When we saw him both physically and mentally, it was a no-brainer for us to sign him. We’re adding a great player and a true leader to our team for the remainder of 2024.”

Jodie Cunningham added: “I think the ship needs to get back on course and Sam might be the man who can do that.”

Jon Wilkin agreed, saying: “The influence he had on that team in terms of managing players, he’s a tactical genius and I’m interested to see how it goes.”