NRL star granted release ahead of Super League move

Sione Mata’utia has been granted an immediate release by the Newcastle Knights to allow him to sign a three-year deal with St Helens.

The 24-year-old back-rower will link up with the Super League champions from the start of next season after falling down the pecking order at the Knights.

Mata’utia is the younger brother of Castleford full-back Peter Mata’utia and also the youngest ever player to represent the Australian Kangaroos.

He has played 124 NRL games since his Knights debut in 2014, also making one appearance for Samoa in 2017.

Commenting on Mata’utia’s departure, Newcastle coach Adam O’Brien said: “He’s been a great servant for the club, in both good and tough times, while his attitude and commitment both on and off the field has always been outstanding,

“We are really pleased to see him get an opportunity to extend his career in England and the chance to travel with his family.

“He is a great young man, who leaves the club with the highest regard.”