Catalans Dragons prop Tevita Pangai Jr has confirmed that he will be making the move to join Warrington Wolves next season. That move was reported yesterday by All Out Rugby League and the forward has confirmed the switch in an interview with Daily Telegraph.
Pangai Jr has been with Catalans for a year and was reportedly set to make the move to rugby union with the Brumbies in the frame. However, that move hasn’t materialised and Pangai Jr has now agreed a one-year deal with Warrington.
It’s looking like an off-season of change for the Wolves, who appear set to lose George Williams to the NRL, while Paul Vaughan has been linked with a move to York Knights. The former New South Wales Blues man adds plenty to the Warrington pack for next season, though, with the forward keen to play under and work with Sam Burgess.
Tevita Pangai Jr confirms Warrington Wolves switch
“I’m excited to work with Sam Burgess,” Pangai Jr told the Australian newspaper. “He’s a big reason why I’m going there.
“Ben Te’o had big wraps on Sam during my time with him at the Broncos and Dolphins. He is very inspiring as a player and coach.”
He added: “Rugby union has always been something I’ve wanted to try.
“It would have been great to be in that environment and system to the learn the No. 6 or 8 position to excel but things didn’t eventuate.
“This opportunity came up and it happened very quickly to be honest.
“I’ve enjoyed my life in France but I’m looking forward to having success with Sam at Warrington.”
The Tonga international has made 19 appearances for the Dragons this season with four tries coming along the way. He has also represented NRL clubs Brisbane Broncos, Canterbury Bulldogs, Penrith Panthers and Dolphins, making a combined total of 147 outings in the sport’s premier competition.
