KAI O’Donnell has dismissed any concerns over ‘second season syndrome’ and believes Leigh Leopards are ready to rip up Super League once again.

The Australian second row forward may have dodged wider headlines during the club’s record-breaking campaign in 2023.

But ultra-consistent performances ensured O’Donnell was a key member of Adrian Lam’s squad.

And he sees no reason why the Challenge Cup holders shouldn’t again challenge for honours on all three domestic fronts.

“I don’t think we will have that problem,” he said regarding Leigh’s bid to equal or even better last season’s achievements.

“We set high standards for ourselves the whole time. We want to compete, we want the pressure.

“Our goals are the same as they were last season. We wanted to aim for the top four, play finals and win the Challenge Cup.

“So, it is looking very bright for us,” he confirmed. “Pre-season has been even better this time round because we have got the combinations there already.

“We are not starting from scratch; we are picking up from where we left off. We also have a lot more depth so we have been able to go with 13 against 13 in training.

“Once we get the first month of footie out of the way and knock off the rust, we will be very sharp and dangerous.

“I’m looking forward to a good year again and I just want the treble now,” he laughed.

After initial speculation last year he may return Down Under, Brisbane born O’Donnell pledged his future to Leigh until the end of 2025.

“I enjoyed my time here and I love the team. I also think we can win the comp here and I would love to win it,” he confirmed.

*Hooker Aaron Smith has joined Championship side Barrow Raiders.

The former St Helens prospect, a member of Saints’ 2019 Grand Final winning squad, only made two of his 39 games for the Leopards in 2023.

And his match time in 2024 looks to be limited with Edwin Ipape and new signing Ben McNamara in pole positions for the hooking role.

*Leigh’s scheduled game at champions Wigan on February 24 will be played on a new date due to the Warriors’ World Club Challenge show down against Penrith Panthers *The club has announced the death of former scrum half John Lowe, aged 79. Lowe made 23 appearances for Leigh before later stints at home town club, Warrington, and Blackpool Borough.