Club nearly missed out on signing star youngster who stood out in tournament alongside ex-St Helens man

South Sydney Rabbitohs pulled off a major signing when they signed exciting youngster Shaqueil Saunders.

The halfback, alongside eventually World Cup winner Latrell Mitchell and former St Helens star Ben Barba, starred in the Koori Knockout tournament.

The 17-year-old caught the eye with an amazing try which went viral leading to plenty of interest but eventually the Bunnies snared him however it nearly never happened.

“They couldn’t contact Shaq despite trying for several days,” said manager Gavin Orr when speaking to the notorious Mole of the Wide World of Sport, who had his own troubles finding the youngster before signing him up.

“The recruitment officer, a scout and even head coach Jason Demetriou were trying to track him down for days without any luck.

“They eventually got hold of him and now he’s a Bunny.”

Orr went on to explain why Souths is a good destination for him.

“It’s a long way to the big city and a massive cultural change, but Souths are looking after him well,” Orr said.

“The club has had plenty of brilliant young Aboriginal players down the years and we thought they would be the best fit.

“He is still young and will play in the SG Ball Cup next season – but he is a special talent and the club are over the moon to have him.”