Ponga signs extension with Newcastle, Drinkwater inks deal with Dragons

The Newcastle Knights have locked down fullback Kalyn Ponga, with the 28-year-old extending with the club until at least the end of 2030.

It’s a significant signing for the club that has struggled for the past decade but has shown promising signs of improvement under new coach Justin Holbrook.

There is also a two-year option in the club’s favour, which means Ponga could likely end his career in Newcastle – the club he has been with since 2018.

For the first time in almost a decade, the long-term future of the club looks promising, with halfback Dylan Brown signed until 2035, playmaker Sandon Smith until 2029 and local talent Fletcher Sharpe contracted until 2028.

Ponga has been sidelined since round two after he suffered a hamstring injury against the Sea Eagles, and has had to manage injuries in the past few seasons.

But the Queensland and Kiwi representative remains one of the NRL’s best talents, and Holbrook said his extension was crucial for the Knights.

“Kalyn is an elite player and an elite person and re-signing him is massive for us,” Holbrook said.

“His leadership within this group is exceptional. He sets the standard every single day, in training, in games, in the way he carries himself, and the players in this squad look to him.

“That kind of influence is invaluable as we continue to build toward the goals we have set for this club. He is one of the leading players in the NRL and he is ours. I could not be more pleased.”

If all things go to plan, Ponga should return from injury in round 10.

Meanwhile, the Dragons have officially signed Cowboys fullback Scott Drinkwater on a three-year deal as the club attempts to rebuild following years of disappointment and the sacking of coach Shane Flanagan.

Announced on the day of one of the club’s most important games – the Anzac Day clash with the Roosters – Dragons chief executive Tim Watsford said signing Drinkwater indicated the club was moving forward.

“Scott is a player of genuine class in our competition, and we’re thrilled to have him commit to the Dragons from 2027,” Watsford said.

“He brings proven NRL experience, composure, skill and an attacking instinct that will be a major asset for our club.

“Importantly, we believe Scott will fit strongly with our playing group both on and off the field.”

Drinkwater will join the Dragons from the 2027 season and is signed until the end of 2029.

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