Perth Bears Sign England International Mikolaj Oledzki for 2027 NRL Season
The Perth Bears are rapidly assembling a roster capable of making an immediate impact in the National Rugby League (NRL) when they join the competition in 2027. The latest addition, announced , is Polish-born England international Mikolaj Oledzki, who has signed a three-year deal with the expansion club.
Oledzki, a 27-year-aged prop forward, brings a wealth of experience to the Bears, having played 199 First-Class games across three Super League clubs: Featherstone Rovers, Bradford Bulls, and most recently, Leeds Rhinos. His journey to professional rugby league is particularly noteworthy, having migrated to England from Gdansk, Poland, with his family at the age of nine.
The signing marks the fifth Test player secured by the Bears, and the third England international, joining Leeds Rhinos teammates Harry Newman and James McDonnell. This aggressive recruitment strategy signals the club’s intent to be competitive from its inception. Perth Bears Head Coach Mal Meninga expressed his enthusiasm for the acquisition, stating, “Mik is a dynamic player who has established himself as one of the consistent prop forwards in the Super League competition. I’ve admired his game for a long time, and I am thrilled to welcome Mik and his young family to Western Australia in 2027.”
Oledzki’s international pedigree is significant, having earned nine caps for England, including appearances in the 2025 Ashes Series. His consistent performances for Leeds Rhinos, where he has played since 2017, have established him as a key figure in the Super League. He has amassed 157 Super League appearances for the Rhinos, adding to his experience with Bradford and Featherstone.
The move to Perth represents a long-held ambition for Oledzki. “It’s been an ambition of mine to test myself in the NRL and I am delighted to have the opportunity to do it with Mal Meninga and the Perth Bears,” Oledzki said. He similarly expressed excitement about the prospect of playing in front of the Perth fanbase, describing them as “loyal and passionate.” The opportunity to relocate his family to Western Australia is also a significant factor in his decision, highlighting the life-changing possibilities afforded by his rugby league career. “Growing up in Poland I would never have thought I’d have the opportunity to live in Perth, but rugby league has given me that chance,” he added.
Perth Bears General Manager of Football, David Sharpe, emphasized the impact Oledzki will have on the team’s forward pack. “Mik is a devastating ball runner and exceptional defender who is a very exciting addition to our roster,” Sharpe stated. He also indicated that further signings are imminent, suggesting the Bears are far from finished building their squad for the 2027 season. Currently, the Bears have 16 signings confirmed for their inaugural NRL season.
The club’s preparations extend beyond player recruitment. Sharpe also highlighted the upcoming launch of the Tracks Academy in Western Australia, as well as collaborative initiatives with the North Sydney Bears and the Brisbane Tigers. These developments underscore the Bears’ commitment to developing local talent and fostering a strong connection with the wider rugby league community.
The addition of Oledzki further solidifies the Perth Bears’ position as a team to watch in the lead-up to their NRL debut. His experience, international caliber, and determination to succeed will undoubtedly be valuable assets as the club strives to establish itself in the highly competitive Australian rugby league landscape. The Bears are clearly prioritizing a strong forward pack, and Oledzki’s arrival, alongside fellow international signings Newman and McDonnell, suggests a physical and uncompromising style of play is in the works. The club’s broader development initiatives, including the Tracks Academy and partnerships with established clubs, demonstrate a long-term vision for success that extends beyond simply competing in the NRL.
The influx of talent from the Super League is a testament to the appeal of the NRL and the opportunity it presents for players to test themselves against the world’s best. For Oledzki, the move represents a chance to fulfill a lifelong ambition and embark on a new chapter in his career, while also providing his family with a unique and exciting lifestyle in Western Australia. The Perth Bears, meanwhile, are building a foundation for success, one impactful signing at a time.