Zane Tetevano, a former prop player for Newcastle Knights, Sydney Roosters, Penrith Panthers and Leeds Rhinos, is reportedly returning to the NRL in 2024 with the Canterbury Bulldogs.
Tetevano, who played his last NRL match in 2020 for Penrith in the grand final loss against Melbourne Storm, moved to English Super League in 2021 and played for Leeds Rhinos for two and a half years, featuring in 44 games.
In 2023, he suffered a stroke during training and had to undergo surgery to repair a hole in his heart, raising doubts about his return to the field. However, he played two games for the Cook Islands during the 2023 Pacific Championships, indicating his return to the game. News Corp now reports that Tetevano has signed a contract with Canterbury Bulldogs, effective immediately.
Leeds Rhinos star to complete move due to failed Super League transfer
Picture by Catalans Dragons via SWpix.com – 03/03/2023 – Rugby League – Betfred Super League Round 3 – Catalans Dragons v Hull FC – Stade Gilbert Brutus, Perpignan, France – Siua Taukeiaho & Kane Evans.
Canterbury Bulldogs have been looking to strengthen their forward pack recently, signing Poasa Faamausili from the Dolphins, and Josh Curran, who was granted a release from the New Zealand Warriors.
However, the loss of Siosiua Taukeiaho in the early part of the off-season due to a failed medical check left the team in need of more depth. Tetevano is expected to fill the gap left by Taukeiaho, pending official confirmation of the signing. He is likely to feature in some games throughout the 2024 season. Tetevano has played 121 NRL games and 44 Super League games, and has represented New Zealand in three Tests and the Cook Islands in ten Tests.
Taukeiaho meanwhile will continue to star for Catalans Dragons after having surgery on the problem that kept him from passing his medical at Canterbury Bulldogs.
The prop is out of contract at the end of the year and will likely return to the NRL in 2025 if rumours and reports down under are to be believed.
Tetevano meanwhile will be joining the Bulldogs after an up and down stint in the Betfred Super League with Leeds Rhinos which ended with a red card against Wigan Warriors before his stroke.
