Canberra weighing up Blake Austin’s future, while Josh Papalii is set to re-sign for three years
CANBERRA are seriously considering parting ways with off-contract five-eighth Blake Austin, while Queensland forward Josh Papalii is set for a brand new deal.
Raiders
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CANBERRA are seriously considering parting ways with off-contract five-eighth Blake Austin, while they’re set to retain Queensland representative forward Josh Papalii on a three-year deal.
The Sunday Telegraph can reveal Raiders officials will meet with Austin’s manager this week to discuss his future beyond this season.
The former Tigers and Panthers playmaker knocked back a long-term offer to re-sign last year as he felt his form wasn’t worthy of a new contract.
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Austin has since enjoyed mixed fortunes at Canberra this season.
He has only made 10 NRL appearances after spending time in the Intrust Super Premiership with Mounties.
Austin has produced more consistent performances in recent weeks, but Canberra management remain undecided about keeping the playmaker.
The club will talk with the half’s manager before making a final decision.
Meanwhile, Canberra lock Josh Papalii is set to sign a three-year contract extension in the coming weeks.
Papalii had received interest from the likes of South Sydney, but the Queensland Origin representative will remain in the nation’s capital.
The big man’s signature is a major boost for a Raiders side that have lacked consistency in 2018.
This was on display in Friday’s shattering one-point loss to Penrith.
LISTEN! Nick Campton and Tim Williams tackle all the news from Origin I, including player rating debacles, changes that must be made and all the details from the match itself.
Canberra looked destined to win when they led by 10 points midway through the second half, but they had their hearts broken in a one-point defeat.
The Raiders have dropped to 10th position on the ladder, two wins outside the top eight.
Canberra’s season will go on the line when they play the Wests Tigers at Campbelltown next Sunday.