Newcastle Knights make statement after winger Starford To’a makes surprise move to rivals

Newcastle Knights winger Starford To’a has made the surprise move to an NRL rival.

That rival is the Wests Tigers who confirmed the signing this morning.

To’a, 21, has already impressed during his limited time in the top grade, and has now signed a two-year deal with the Tigers which will keep him at the club until at least the end of the 2023 season.

The winger, who can also play fullback and in the centres, has 20 NRL games under his belt after making his debut back in the 2019 NRL season with 11 tries to show for it.

Michael Maguire said in a club statement that To’a would be an excellent signing for the Tigers.

“Starford is a talented player with NRL experience and I’m really pleased to welcome him to our team,” Maguire said.

“Starford will be a great addition to the talented young squad that we’re building, and I look forward to him joining the team ahead of the 2022 NRL season.”

To’a joins the likes of Oliver Gildart and Jackson Hastings in making the switch to the Tigers.

Meanwhile, Newcastle released this statement this morning:

The nib Newcastle Knights have agreed to release Starford To’a from the remaining two years of his current contract.

Both parties agreed an immediate release would be mutually beneficial, allowing To’a to take up a new contract with another NRL club.

Knights players and staff would like to thank Starford for his contribution to the Club and his work in the community. We wish him all the best for the future.