Wests Tigers lure NRL rookie with $1.2 million deal

WESTS Tigers have secured the services of Fairfield United first-grade rookie Moses Suli with a generous $1.2 million offer.

Moses Suli, 18, has signed a reported record $1.3 million contract (for a rookie) with the Wests Tigers NRL team ahead of the 2017 season.

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FAIRFIELD United junior Moses Suli has never played a first-grade NRL game in his life, but the Wests Tigers will pay the rookie more than $1.2 million for his services this year.

The Tigers have enticed the 18-year-old player to remain at the club until 2020.

Moses Suli, 10, of Fairfield, plays rugby league for Mounties.

From humble beginnings at Fairfield United, Suli scored for the Tigers’ Holden Cup team in his two only games last year.

“I only played a few games last year and then got injured, but I’m back in training now and it’s been great to be out there with the senior guys,” Suli said.

The teen also represented NSW in the under-16s Origin in 2014, and the under-18s in 2016.

“I’m hoping to have a crack at first grade as soon as possible, but I’m keen to just keep working hard and do my best.”

Suli is keen to get cracking at his chance at the top grade. “This club gave me a shot when I was 15 — I’ve loved every second being here and can’t wait for what’s to come.”

The teen, who started playing rugby league when he was just four years old, was a NewsLocal Junior Sports Star nominee in 2009.

Tigers CEO Justin Pascoe said the club was excited to see Suli’s continued progress. “Considering the interest in Moses from a number of different clubs, it’s clear he has an abundance of talent and potential,” Pascoe said. “It’s extremely exciting for the club’s members and fans to see a future first-grade centre commit his future to Wests Tigers.”

The Wests Tigers kick off their 2017 season against the South Sydney Rabbitohs at ANZ Stadium on Friday, March 3.

Moses Suli of the Tigers in the game against the Broncos on day 2 of the Auckland Nines at Eden Park, New Zealand. Picture: Mark Evans