LEIGH Centurions have turned to an acknowledged playmaker in a bid to rescue their season.

The Super League strugglers have swooped for former Leeds Rhinos Aussie playmaker Robbie Mears for the remainder of the campaign.

Leigh have singled out Mears, who has also played for Canterbury Bulldogs and Auckland Warriors, as the ideal replacement for Jason Ferris who packed his bags and left a month ago.

Thirty-years-old Mears plays predominately in the hooker role but can also play at scrum half. His strength lies in his ability to read a game and take the attack to the opposition.

He says: " I am very excited to becoming back to Super League and playing for Leigh.

"I had offers from other Super League teams but when I spoke to Leigh I decided that this was the team for me. There is a lot of work to do and I am very excited about the challenge ahead, and feel that we can definitely perform in Super League."

Leigh coach Darren Abram says: "Robbie is a quality player who will add that extra bite to our team. He has played at the highest level before and will bring immense experience to our squad.

"Robbie is very excited about the challenge ahead and I am sure he will be a hit with the fans and his fellow teammates."

He is signed for the remainder of this season with an option for 2006.

Mears will arrive in Leigh next Wednesday and is expected to make his debut in the televised game against Wakefield on Saturday.