Billy Searle signs new Leicester deal after standout debut season

Billy Searle is staying at Leicester Tigers.

The 30-year-old fly-half has signed a new contract after only one season at the club. Leicester announced the re-signing on 16 September 2026 but did not confirm the length of the deal.

Searle is the playmaker in the No. 10 shirt. He decides when Leicester kick for territory, pass wide or take on the line, and he does most of the goal-kicking too.

He made that job his own last season. Searle joined Leicester in 2025 from French club Agen and scored 217 points in 24 appearances in all competitions during his debut campaign, form that earned him a nomination for the Prem Player of the Season award for 2025-26, according to BBC Sport.

That tally comes from tries, conversions, penalties and drop-goals. It is a heavy workload. It also explains why the nomination matters. The Prem is England's top flight, and the end-of-season shortlist picks out the players who shaped it most.

Head coach Geoff Parling praised Searle's attacking intent and game management. He also highlighted his professionalism and desire to keep improving, qualities Leicester underlined when confirming the news, according to Leicester Tigers.

Searle, who is also an England A international, said he enjoyed his first season at Leicester. Extending his contract was an easy decision. England A is effectively England's second string, a step below the senior Test side and a proving ground for players pushing for full honours.

His route back to English rugby was not straightforward. Searle returned to the Prem for the 2025-26 season after three seasons in France. Before that he played for Wasps and Worcester Warriors in England, and later joined Bath on a short-term contract.

Last autumn he spoke about wanting to settle and make Leicester his home. That context helps explain this call. One strong year. No hesitation. A playmaker who wants roots.

For supporters, this means stability in the position that sets the tempo. Keep the kicker. Keep the organiser. Build around him.