NRL market watch: Chanel Harris-Tavita to rejoin New Zealand Warriors on two-year deal

Chanel Harris-Tavita stunned the rugby league world when he walked from the game at the end of last season. But the former Warriors prodigy is making an NRL return.

Chanel Harris-Tavita.

Chanel Harris-Tavita will end his rugby league hiatus after the New Zealand Warriors announced he would rejoin the NRL club on a two-year deal from next season.

The 24-year-old half walked away from rugby league at the end of last season, citing the need for a break, having lost his passion for the game.

Having not played since the World Cup final for Samoa in England, Harris-Tavita has rediscovered his hunger.

Chanel Harris-Tavita will return to the Warriors.

“Chanel was only 23 when he made an incredibly brave decision to take time out from the game,” Andrew McFadden, the Warriors’ general manager of recruitment, pathways and development, said.

“But, while he wanted to experience life away from training as a professional athlete, the door was always open to him if he wanted to return to the Warriors.

“We stayed in touch and as soon as he arrived home we met to talk about a contract from next season.

“Chanel is a quality player and, at just 24, he still has a lot of football in front of him.

“He’s refreshed, loves the Warriors and is really excited about what’s happening in all areas at the club. He wants to be part of it and to contribute.”

Chanel Harris-Tavita in action for Samoa at the 2021 World Cup.

A versatile player who can slot in the halves or at fullback, Harris-Tavita’s signing gives the Warriors added depth. They already have Ronald Volkman and Luke Metcalf on their books, while the club is also in talks to extend veteran Shaun Johnson’s contract, after he rejected an approach to join the Wests Tigers.

The Warriors will also welcome back Roger Tuivasa-Sheck to the club next season after he signed a three-year deal to return to rugby league following a stint in rugby union.