Alongside this, the St George Illawarra Dragons have extended Loko Jnr Pasifiki Tonga until 2029, while John Bateman prepares for a 2027 return to the Super League with the Bradford Bulls.
Jackson Ford Commits to New Zealand Warriors Until 2029
The New Zealand Warriors confirmed that Jackson Ford has extended his contract, ensuring he remains with the club through the end of the 2029 season. The 28-year-old, who joined the club in 2023 following a four-year tenure with the St George Illawarra Dragons, has recorded 78 matches and 14 tries for the Warriors.
Warriors coach Andrew Webster praised Ford’s performance, stating, “Jackson was in the form of his life in the first half of the season. He was awesome.” The club’s General Manager of Recruitment, Pathways and Development, Andrew McFadden, added that the extension reflects Ford’s transformation and work ethic, noting that he has established himself as a premier front-rower in the NRL.
Did you know?
Jackson Ford’s recent form placed him in contention for a State of Origin debut for the New South Wales Blues before he was sidelined by injury.
Dragons Secure Loko Jnr Pasifiki Tonga in Retention Drive
The St George Illawarra Dragons have finalized a long-term extension for forward Loko Jnr Pasifiki Tonga, locking the 196cm, 114kg player to the club until the end of 2029. This agreement follows reports from earlier in the year that the player’s management had sought a release from his contract.
Dragons coach Dean Young expressed confidence in the young forward’s potential, citing his “impressive footy IQ” and defensive mobility. Pasifiki Tonga, an Australian Schoolboy who joined the Dragons in 2023, has appeared in 24 NRL matches. His signing is part of a broader retention strategy at the club, which recently extended deals for Dylan Egan, Ryan Couchman, and Toby Couchman.
John Bateman to Depart NRL for Bradford Bulls
North Queensland Cowboys forward John Bateman will conclude his NRL career at the end of the current season to join the Bradford Bulls in the Super League. The 32-year-old has signed a two-year contract for 2027 and 2028, with a club option for 2029.
Bateman, who has logged 88 NRL appearances across the Canberra Raiders, Wests Tigers, and Cowboys, described the move as a return to his roots. “I am a Bradford lad and this city means more to me than anything,” Bateman said. His international experience includes 31 appearances for England and Great Britain, including serving as captain in 2021.
Movement Among Young Talent and International Stars
The Manly Sea Eagles have confirmed the signing of rookie forward Kayliss Fatialofa from the New Zealand Warriors on a three-year deal starting in 2027. Sea Eagles coach Kieran Foran highlighted Fatialofa’s consistency in the NSW Cup, where he was named in the 2025 Team of the Year.
Meanwhile, St Helens star Jack Welsby recently disclosed his previous interest in moving to the NRL. The 25-year-old English international revealed he came close to signing with the Dolphins to play under Kristian Woolf. While Welsby remains focused on his current form in the Super League, he indicated he would not close the door on a potential future move to the Australian competition.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is Jackson Ford signed with the Warriors?
Jackson Ford is contracted to remain with the New Zealand Warriors until at least the end of the 2029 season.
Where is John Bateman playing after the 2026 season?
John Bateman will return to the UK to play for the Bradford Bulls for the 2027 and 2028 seasons.
Which club signed Kayliss Fatialofa?
The Manly Sea Eagles signed Kayliss Fatialofa on a three-year contract beginning in 2027.
Stay up to date with all the latest player movements and NRL news by subscribing to our newsletter or checking our Transfer Tracker for daily updates.
Related reading