St Helens confirm Konrad Hurrell signing

Josh McAllister
Konrad Hurrell

Konrad Hurrell in action for Leeds

St Helens have confirmed the signing of Konrad Hurrell on a one-year deal.

Hurrell, 30, joined Leeds ahead of the 2019 season from NRL side Gold Coast Titans, and was named in the Super League dream team in the first two seasons.

He makes the switch from the Rhinos with 23 tries in 55 matches, and winning the Challenge Cup in 2020.

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Hurrell has also won 11 caps for Tonga on the international stage, playing in the last two World Cups. He links up with his national coach Kristian Woolf once again for 2022.

“I am honoured to sign with this team,” he said.

“The Saints have won three titles in the row and are currently the best team in Super League. I am blessed to have the opportunity because a lot of players and young kids want to play for this team.

“I like a challenge and I know it is going to be tough to find a spot in the squad. But it is a challenge I am looking forward to. I am looking forward to proving a point that I can be good enough to be in this team. I want a big pre-season because I know I need to work hard and earn the respect from the boys.

“The one thing I love about the Super League is the fans. Hopefully the St Helens fans are looking forward to seeing me in a St Helens jersey and I am looking forward to meeting everyone.”

Saints coach on Konrad Hurrell

Head coach Kristian Woolf added: “Everyone knows ‘Koni’ is a great character. He has a terrific ability to enjoy rugby league and make the fans feel a part of the team. What I also know is he is a terrific competitor and I know he has not been happy with what he has done in 2021.

“There are a number of reasons for that, people may forget he has had some family tragedy through lockdown which made last year a really tough year for him and that sometimes gets forgotten. He is a strong family man and that does affect your footy and what you can do on the field.

“I have been really proud watching him get through that as well as overcome some injuries. I’m really happy he is joining us. I know what he is as a player and he has played in some real big games for Tonga and been one of our best players.

“The 2017 World Cup beating New Zealand is an example. He really stood up in that game as he did against Great Britain and Australia in 2019.

“He was in the 2019 and 2020 Super League Dream Team. Coming into our environment next season I think he will really thrive in it. We will get him at his fittest and at his best and if we do that and he is happy, we will have a real player on our hands.

“He can be a real X Factor for us next year and I am sure the fans will love him.”

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