Catalans sign New Zealand international

Catalans Dragons have announced the signing of New Zealand international Dean Whare.

Whare, 31, has signed a two year contract which will keep him at the Gilbert Brutus Stadium until the end of the 2022 season.

The three-quarter started his professional career at the Manly Sea Eagles in 2010 before joining Penrith in 2013. A versatile player who can also play fullback or winger, Whare cemented a centre position during his first season at the Panthers, finishing the following year as the club’s top try-scorer.

With 40 tries in 155 games during his career, the Kiwi also featured in two World Cups in 2013 and 2017 and was a member of the New Zealand side that won the 2014 Four Nations.

Whare could not hide his delight about signing with the Dragons. “I am very excited for the new opportunity to be joining the Catalans Dragons. I am looking forward to meeting the team and embracing the French culture. There are some exciting times ahead and I can’t wait to start.”

Head coach Steve McNamara is excited to see Whare in action. “Dean will be a great addition to our squad. He is an outstanding professional with great ethics, he will bring real quality and class to our attack whilst he is also a player who loves the tough defensive side of the game.”