NZ Warriors continue to stock up on talent for 2022 and beyond, with the re-signing of utility forward Jazz Tevaga.
The deal will see the 25-year-old remain at the Warriors through the 2023 season, with the club able to fend off several suitors for one of their enforcers.
The Bulldogs, Raiders and Cowboys had all been linked to Tevaga, but coach Nathan Brown says the Warriors were committed to retaining the Samoan international.
"Jazz has been really consistent in his training and the way he has played this season," says Brown.
"I’ve been impressed with the way he’s gone about improving his game and what he brings in terms of team dynamics.
"Every area the coaches have asked him to improve, he’s worked on and we’re seeing good results."
Tevaga has been ever-present in 2021, recording his 12th straight outing in last Friday night's one-point loss against the Cowboys in Townsville. He was sin-binned for a late tackle that was deemed dangerous, but escaped further penalty from the NRL judiciary.
The five-year NRL veteran says his plan was always to stay with the New Zealand club, despite the growing interest in his signature.
"I always wanted to stay here,” says Tevaga. “I love the club and I love where we’re headed.
"I’m just glad to have my future sorted out now, so I can get on with the rest of the season.”
After making his NRL debut against Melbourne in 2016, Tevaga had just 11 appearances to his name after his first two seasons, but has been an established first-grader since 2018, when he was named Dally M Interchange Player of the Year.
Tevaga’s signing comes two weeks after centre Adam Pompey had his contract extended, while rookie outside back Rocco Berry and standoff Kodi Nikorima have also re-signed recently.
Tohu Harris has also committed to a further two years at the club, while the club has already struck paydirt with the addition of exciting youngster Reece Walsh.
Standout forward Josh Curran and fan favourite Bunty Afoa have yet to be signed to contracts beyond this season.
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