Market watch: Knights sign former State of Origin star as Tamika Upton’s fullback replacement

The Knights have wasted no time in finding a replacement for Tamika Upton, with Newcastle signing a former NSW star to play fullback next year.

The Knights have moved swiftly to cover the loss of superstar fullback Tamika Upton, with the club signing representative player Botille Vette-Welsh on a long-term deal that will keep her in Newcastle until at least the end of the 2027 season.

Losing the best fullback in the world to Brisbane is a huge blow, but it will be softened by Vette-Welsh’s arrival on a three-year deal if she can recapture the sort of form that gained her NSW honours from 2019-21.

Vette-Welsh had stints at the Dragons, Roosters and Eels before she suffered a major knee injury and has spent the past two seasons at the Wests Tigers, where she was co-captain in their inaugural year.

Former NSW fullback Botille Vette-Welsh has signed a three-year deal to join the Knights. Picture: AAP Image/Dean Lewins

“Newcastle is such an exciting place with the team doing well, State of Origin and now NRLW Magic Round coming to town,” Vette-Welsh said.

“Everyone knows how passionate the Hunter community is about the NRLW. I can’t wait to be part of it and get to work with the girls.”

The 28-year-old scored two tries last season and is a key addition to the squad as the Knights look to bounce back following their semi-final loss to eventual premiers the Roosters that ended their hopes of winning three titles on the trot.

“Bo is a proven performer who will add skill and experience to our NRLW squad,” Knights director of football Peter Parr said.

“Bo is a high-quality player and we are delighted that she will be in Knights colours from next year.“