The Raiders and Josh Papalii have reportedly agreed to terms on a one-year extension for the veteran to continue playing for his beloved Canberra in 2026.
That is according to the SMH, who are reporting Papalii opted against making the move to the Super League to end his impressive rugby league career.
Instead, he will sign an extension which spells the end of Trey Mooney’s time in the nation’s capital.
Mooney has reportedly been granted a release to join the Knights in 2026, signing a reported three-year deal to make a move to the Hunter.
While Papalii’s extension has reportedly squeezed one man out, English star Morgan Smithies is also reportedly on the verge of agreeing to a new deal.
He’s seen as a key figure in the middle of the park for the Raiders, and has been negotiating a fresh contract according to the Canberra Times.
Meanwhile, on Monday Ricky Stuart unveiled his newest recruit in Dragons flyer Sione Finua.
His signing came after Stuart expressed his disappointment details of Finau’s meeting with the Canberra club were leaked by his management.
“I just don’t feel comfortable with it,” Stuart said at the time.
“He’s a real nice young bloke. I feel sorry for him.”
