NRL 2020: Canterbury secures Tim Lafai for rest of 2020 season

Former Canterbury centre Tim Lafai will return to the Bulldogs for the remainder of 2020 after being released by St George Illawarra.

Tim Lafai during his Canterbury days. Lafai will join the Bulldogs for the rest of 2020 after being released by St George Illawarra. Picture: Gregg Porteous

Last-placed Canterbury have received a boost with centre Tim Lafai returning to the club for the remainder of 2020 after being granted a release by St George Illawarra.

Lafai, who made his NRL debut for the Bulldogs in 2011 and played five seasons at Belmore, will link up with his new club at training on Tuesday.

The Samoan international will be available for selection for this Sunday’s clash against the Newcastle Knights.

Tim Lafai will leave St George Illawarra to return to Canterbury for the remainder of the 2020 NRL season. Picture: Chris Hyde/Getty Images.

Dragons coach Paul McGregor declared confidence within his crop of capable three-quarters was a contributor behind Lafai‘s release.

“We have been pleased with the recent performances of Euan Aitken and Zac Lomax, while Brayden Wiliame is close to returning from injury,” McGregor said.

“We are also comfortable that Jackson Ford and Tyrell Fuimaono are capable of playing there if ever required.

“Another factor the club considered was the long-term trajectory of Max and Mat Feagai, who have impressed since joining the NRL development squad this year.

“We thank Tim for his contribution and wish him all the best in his future endeavours.”

Director of rugby league pathways and list management Ian Millward also thanked Lafai for his contribution to the Red V.

“As a club, we were comfortable with the decision for Tim to shore up his long-term future at another NRL club,“ Millward said.

“Tim has been an outstanding representative for St George Illawarra over the past five seasons; the decision to release him was based on the merit of the capabilities within our squad and not in consideration of any trade deals, as has been falsely reported.”

In his previous stint at Belmore between 2011 and 2015, Lafai played in 74 matches and scored 30 tries.