Former Super League star released as move away looms

Former Salford Red Devils and Wakefield Trinity forward Pauli Pauli is looking for a new club.

A player who has played on the biggest stages including Wembley for Salford Red Devils in the 2020 Challenge Cup Final against Leeds Rhinos, he joined York as one of their major signings ahead of the 2022 season.

However, he is now on set to pursue new opportunities after being released by York ahead of the 2024 season.

The club made the following statement confirming the exit of Pauli Pauli: “The Knights can confirm that forward Pauli Pauli has departed York RLFC with immediate effect to pursue new opportunities.

“We would like to thank Pauli for his efforts during his time at York and wish him all the best for the future!”

His exit may sting a little but the club have been proactive ahead of the 2024 season signing former Leeds and Warrington Wolves star Richie Myler. Now they have signed half-back Liam Harris to a new two-year deal.

Harris returned to York after two previous loan spells ahead of the 2022 season and scored 18 tries and 47 goals as the Knights reached the Betfred Championship Play-Off Semi-Finals, losing out only to eventual promotion winners Leigh Leopards.

The former Hull FC and Hull KR man played a key role as York again secured a spot in the Betfred Championship Play-Offs this year, scoring six tries and registering 21 assists and he showcased his qualities as an organising half-back.

Harris’ performances saw him win the Graham Steadman Player of the Year Award and the Club’s End of Season Awards last month.

Harris first endeared himself to York supporters during his two loan spells in 2017 and 2019.

The 26-year-old scored 14 tries in 18 appearances in the former as York narrowly missed out on promotion from League One before scoring five times in 18 outings in the latter as the Knights finished third in the Betfred Championship.

On signing a new deal with the Club, Harris said: “The people keep me coming back. Whenever I’ve been at York there’s been a great group of players and coaching staff and people above that too.

“The fans are great. I’ve had a real good connection with them over the past however many years. It’s my happy place.”

Harris has reflected on his time spent at the Club so far, and recalls some of his personal highlights:

“Going back to 2017, the group of players we had then were unreal and we were the first time to beat Toronto when they came in full-time. That was great.”

“I went away, then came back and we got promoted to the Championship and ended up finishing third in our first season back. That was unbelievable…

“And this year we had a great Cup run. We’re almost there aren’t we and just a little bit extra to get us over that line onto the next step.”