King Vuniyayawa on why he decided to join Salford

Correspondent
King Vuniyayawa in action for Leeds

Salford have announced the signing of Fiji international King Vuniyayawa from Leeds on a two-year contract.

The 26-year-old prop or second row forward began his career in the NRL with New Zealand Warriors before making the switch to Super League ahead of the 2021 season and made 17 appearances for the Rhinos.Vuniyayawa, who turned down the offer of a new contract from Leeds, said: “I decided to come to Salford to take on new challenges and to keep progressing in terms of my footy.

“Super League footy is quite different to NRL footy so learning to adjust to the game and how they play over here has taken a bit of time for me but I’m getting there.

“With joining the Devils, I feel like it’s a good move for me to focus on myself and what I can bring to the team.”

Salford director of rugby and operations Ian Blease said: “I am pleased and excited to bring in a quality player like King Vuniyayawa to the Red Devils for the next two seasons.

“King will add some strength and size to our pack as we continue to build our squad for 2022 and onwards.

“As a club, we will work hard with King and give him our full backing to enable him to become a leading Super League forward.”

Salford have yet to appoint a new head coach for 2022 following the surprise departure of Richard Marshall.

Another Fijian in Super League?

Kane Evans in action for Parramatta Eels
Kane Evans in action for Parramatta Eels

New Zealand Warriors have released prop Kane Evans so he can pursue an opportunity in Super League.

The 29-year-old was on contract with the NRL side for next season, but both parties have mutually agreed to part ways.

Hull, Wakefield and Salford have all been linked with Evans, who has won 13 caps for Fiji and appeared in two World Cups.

Warriors recruitment manager Peter O’Sullivan said: “By mutual agreement we’ve parted ways amicably to enable Kane to pursue opportunities in the Super League.

“We thank Kane for the contribution he has made this season and wish him all the best for his future in England.”

Kane Evans has made 131 appearances in the NRL for Sydney Roosters, Parramatta Eels and the Warriors.

Super League King Vuniyayawa