Canberra Raiders re-sign Corey Harawira-Naera

Canberra Raiders have re-signed Corey Harawira-Naera on a new three-year deal.

The new deal will see the forward with the club until at least the end of 2025.

Harawira-Naera, 26, joined the Raiders ahead of the 2020 season from Canterbury Bulldogs. He made his NRL debut in 2017 for Penrith Panthers, before moving to the Bulldogs in 2019.

He won an appeal against the Bulldogs over his sacking in 2020 but opted against staying at the club, instead joining the Raiders

He has won three caps for New Zealand and has also represented the Maori All Stars.

Corey Harawira-Naera: ‘I love my life down here’

“The club has been really welcoming since I’ve been down here after leaving another club,” Harawira-Naera said.

“It’s very exciting, I love my life down here and I love the boys and I’m glad that the club want to have me as well because most players struggle and get a bit worried when their contract is on the line. I’m glad to get it done and I can focus on the season.”

After missing the top eight in 2021, Harawira-Naera said the squad this year remains fully focussed on returning to finals football and he’s happy to be part of what the club is building.

He added: “Last year was probably really disappointing for the whole club and us players in general. But it’s been a fresh and good start in the preseason.

“In the trials, the boys played well, and everyone is looking fit, and everyone is keen for the season to start now.”

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CEO Don Furner has say

On the re-signing, club CEO Don Furner commented: “Corey has been a great addition to our squad since he arrived and has really settled into our club and Canberra.

“His re-signing today is another show of faith in our club and what we’re building for the future.”

Canberra opened their 2022 campaign with a 24-19 victory over Cronulla Sharks.

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