This week’s double coup saw the two join Leeds, and chief executive Gary Hetherington praised it as “the biggest single investment in players that the club has made since the signing of Iestyn Harris 26 years ago.”
Ackers represented England in the World Cup to cap a coming-of-age season, while Croft led Salford to the verge of the Super League Grand Final and was crowned last year’s Man of Steel.
The hooker was not selected by Shaun Wane for the series against Tonga, but Croft is counting on him to regain his best form at Headingley as they continue their joint quest for victory.
“When the possibility of coming to Leeds came about a few weeks ago, the thought of leaving the group at Salford was a bit daunting at first,” explained Croft.
“I was grateful and honored that a team like Leeds wanted me. Knowing that they too wanted Ackers gave me the motivation I needed to go. I believed we could accomplish something unique here.
He is the one who distributes the ball the most and gets me the ball when I need it because he is also the nine. I firmly believe that Ackers is the greatest nine in the nation and that they improve my game. Hopefully, we can strengthen this team and each other.
Croft and Ackers were a member of what was perhaps the most dangerous spine in Super League last season, which also included Ryan Brierley and Marc Sneyd.
Ackers expects Croft to soon establish why he was deemed the top player in the 2022 competition.
“I speak to Brodie a lot,” Ackers added. “He’s a good friend, apart from he’s Australian!”He is a fantastic athlete and player. He is a true professional and arguably one of the rugby league players with the highest level of commitment.
“He was the Man of Steel in 2022, therefore the evidence is there for him. It’s all good with Brodie since he’ll be eager to redeem himself after not having exactly the success he did with Salford last year.
“When the possibility of coming to Leeds came about a few weeks ago, the thought of leaving the group at Salford was a bit daunting at first,” said Croft.
“I was appreciative and proud that Leeds wanted me. I was motivated to attend since I knew they wanted Ackers as well. I thought we could do something special here.
Because he is also the nine, he is the one who passes the ball to me most frequently and does it when I need it. I am adamant that Ackers is the best nine in the country and that they elevate my play. Hopefully, we can grow as a team and as individuals.
Croft sees Frawley as his ideal opponent in the first and second halves.
“I don’t know him personally but have seen his career from afar,” replied Croft.
“I truly appreciate how he conducts himself. He seems like a reliable half-back partner for me.
It was helpful to have a left-footed kicker at Salford, and I believe Frawley kicks with his left foot as well.
“I’m hoping we can work on those combinations in the spine over the preseason and develop a really strong combination. It’s extremely thrilling to think about what we could accomplish with Lachie Miller joining us.
