Former NRL and Super League stalwart extends Championship stay for 2027 aged 39

Former NRL and Super League star Junior Sa’u has agreed a one-year extension to his stay at Championship outfit Rochdale Hornets for 2027, with his 40th birthday on the horizon!

Nine-time New Zealand international Sa’u also has two caps to his name for Samoa on the international stage, and boasts over 350 senior career appearances in the game.

A dual-code ace having enjoyed a stint in America playing union for Old Glory DC, the veteran will turn 40 next April – and all being well, will still be taking to the field in the Championship.

After joining Rochdale ahead of this season – and featuring 25 times in their colours so far – he has now agreed a one-year extension at the Crown Oil Arena for the 2027 campaign.

‘I’m so grateful and blessed to play on for another year’

Ōtāhuhu-born centre Sa’u clocked up 90 NRL appearances at the start of his career between Newcastle Knights and Melbourne Storm.

He arrived in the UK as he joined Salford Red Devils in 2014, and barring his brief stint playing union in the United States, has remained in the British game since.

As the 39-year-old inked his new deal with the Hornets, he said: “I’m so grateful and blessed to play on for another year.

“This is our first campaign in the Championship, where we’re coming up against some experienced sides full of former Super League players.

“There’s a lot of work to be done still, but our recruitment has been strong and we’re only heading in one direction. 

“From pre-season to where we are now, there are lots of reasons to be optimistic about the trajectory of this group. We’re taking positive steps, for sure.”

Sa’u’s time in the UK has so far seen him don a shirt for Wakefield Trinity, Leigh and Keighley Cougars as well as both Salford and Rochdale.

His efforts this year have helped Gary Thornton’s side through a solid first year back in the Championship following the merger between the second and third tiers, with the Hornets currently sat 15th on the ladder.

With just four games remaining this term, Chairman Andy Mazey added: “I’m absolutely delighted that Junior has decided to go round again, and it’s great news that he has committed to extending his contract with us. 

“He has been everything we believed he would be and more this year, on and off the pitch. 

“He’s an outstanding human being, top-notch professional, and a fantastic role model to younger players who train hard and play even harder. 

“Junior’s experience and standing within the group is important for continuity as we look to build on this year’s efforts and strengthen the team going into 2027.”

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