Parramatta secure deals with Michael Oldfield, Keegan Hipgrave and Will Smith for 2021 season

Parramatta has added some much-needed depth to key positions as they look to break their lengthy NRL premiership duck in 2021.

BRISBANE, AUSTRALIA - JUNE 27: Keegan Hipgrave of the Titans takes on the defence during the round seven NRL match between the Brisbane Broncos and the Gold Coast Titans at Suncorp Stadium on June 27, 2020 in Brisbane, Australia. (Photo by Bradley Kanaris/Getty Images)

Parramatta have signed a Canberra flyer, a Titans forward, an injured Warrior and re-signed one of their own on a busy day for the club.

Parramatta added Raiders journeyman Michael Oldfield, Titans player Keegan Hipgrave plus re-signed utility Will Smith.

Hooker Nathaniel Roache has landed a development spot with the club.

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Keegan Hipgrave’s arrival will bolster the Eels’ forward stocks.

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Oldfield and Smith’s deals are just for one season while the Eels have an option in their favour to retain Hipgrave for 2022.

Oldfield will arrive at his sixth NRL club with the 29-year-old having played 54 top grade games, including six for the Raiders this year. He will add some much needed depth to the outside backs alongside fellow new recruit Tom Opacic. The Eels have lost George Jennings to Melbourne while his brother, Michael, faces an uncertain future.

Hipgrave, 23, played 40 games for the Titans and overcome concussion fears last year to return and play 13 matches this year.

Smith, 28, will head into his fifth year the Eels. He has played 10 games in the past two years.

“We look forward to welcoming Michael and Keegan in the pre-season and having Will remain in the blue and gold,” said Eels general manager of football Mark O’Neill.

“We believe the combination of the new NRL rule changes, Eels coaching capability and our club environment will bring the best out of these players.

Michael Oldfield’s arrival will help cover the loss of George Jennings.

“We are thankful of their decision to choose our club and are excited about working together upon their arrival.”

Roache has played just 26 games since making his debut in 2016. He has battled a long list of injuries including a torn Achilles, lumbar disc and a torn ACL. But as a development player it is a low risk signing for the Eels who also remain in negotiations with Bryce Cartwright.

Roache’s former Warriors teammate Isaiah Papali‘i has also joined the Eels along with hooker Joey Lussick.

Originally published as Parramatta secure deals with Michael Oldfield, Keegan Hipgrave and Will Smith for 2021 season