Cronulla sign promising Parramatta forward

Steven Hughes
Oregon Kaufusi Parramatta

Cronulla have announced the signing of forward Oregon Kaufusi from Parramatta on a two-year deal from the 2023 season.

That means the 2022 season will his last as an Eels player, before making to Southern Sydney to join the Sharks.

Kaufusi was at Wentworthville, and also came through the Parramatta junior system, before making it up to the first team. He made his NRL debut in 2018.

Since making his debut, Kaufusi has made 44 appearances in the NRL for the Eels, scoring two tries. His first came in Parramatta’s first game at their new CommBank Stadium against Wests. His second came earlier this year against Brisbane.

Meanwhile, on the representative stage, Kaufusi has played for New South Wales at under-16s, under-18s and under-20s. He has also represented Australia Schoolboys.

Parramatta reaction

Eels General Manager Mark O’Neill told the club website: “Oregon is a good young man and a talented footballer who has been willing to work hard and contribute to the team in whatever role he has been given.

“We would have loved to extend Oregon’s time with the Eels, but as we manage our roster over the coming seasons, that hasn’t been possible and Oregon has taken up an opportunity with another Club.

“We look forward to Oregon continuing to make a positive contribution to the Club in the 2022 season and we wish he and his partner all the best for 2023 and beyond.”

Dolphins make another statement signing for 2023

New NRL club the Dolphins have announced the signing of Jamayne Isaako from Brisbane ahead of their inaugural NRL season in 2023.

Isaako joins Ray Stone and Felise Kaufusi in joining from NRL clubs. He has played 76 games for Brisbane and scored 24 tries and 216 goals. Isaako holds an impressive kicking rate of over 80 per-cent.

He has also represented New Zealand and Samoa on the international stage.

Read More: Redcliffe tempt Jamayne Isaako to join from Brisbane