NRL Market Watch: Brendan Hands and Will Kennedy sign new deals

Brendan Hands’ job security just improved with the Eels signing the rookie rake up on a new deal while the Sharks have locked down the last piece of their backline puzzle.

Parramatta hooker Brendan Hands. Picture: NRL Imagery

Parramatta have tied up back-up hooker Brendan Hands for a further two years, keeping him at the club until the end of the 2025 season.

Hands has impressed in three games since making his debut against his former club Penrith in round four, and has been rewarded with a new deal.

First-choice No. 9 Josh Hodgson, who only joined the Eels this year, has a mutual option to remain at the club beyond this season.

“I’m stoked to extend my stay here at the Eels, I’ve really bonded with the boys and it’s been exciting playing alongside them. I’ve only got a couple of games to my name but I’m enjoying finding my way into the team,” Hands said.

Parramatta hooker Brendan Hands. Picture: NRL Imagery

Will Kennedy of the Sharks. Picture: Getty Images

“Josh Hodgson has been really helpful with passing on his knowledge to me and is really helping me develop my game. It’s a privilege to be working with such an experienced hooker.”

Meanwhile, Cronulla have confirmed the re-signing of fullback Will Kennedy for a further two years.

His extension keeps him at the club, who have now locked in their entire backline long-term, until the end of the 2025 season.

“I’ve been here since my SG Ball days and I love the club, the culture we have here and have close relationships with the players here at the Sharks,” Kennedy said.

“With the playing group we have and under the coaching of Fitzy (Craig Fitzgibbon), Steve Price, Josh Hannay and DJ (Daniel Holdsworth) I think we are building something special here and I’m excited to be a part of it.”