NRLW Market Watch: Dragons closing in on ex-Origin prop Hannah Southwell

The Dragons are slowly rebuilding their roster for the upcoming NRLW season, with one off-contract star preparing to sign on the dotted line.

St George Illawarra are closing in on a deal with former Newcastle captain Hannah Southwell after the ex-representative forward toured the club’s facilities earlier this week.

A deal could be finalised in the coming week, bringing her back to the Dragons where she played the inaugural NRLW season in 2018.

The three-time NRLW premiership winner was granted an immediate release from the remainder of her contract with the Knights a fortnight ago, citing the need to push herself after three years at the club.

“I love (the Knights), and I always will, it’s just time for something different and to push myself,” Southwell said at the time.

“This is a mutually beneficial outcome for both parties.

“I’ve made best friends for life in Newcastle, this is my home, and it always will be.”

Hannah Southwell is close to signing with the Dragons. Picture: Scott Gardiner/Getty Images

It came as a shock for Knights fans following the off-season departures of star fullback Tamika Upton (Broncos), as well as forwards Caitlan Johnston-Green and Jacinta Carter to the Sharks.

Her likely addition to a rising Dragons team will be a shot of maturity for the young side under new coach Nathan Cross and female football manager Sam Bremner.

The 25-year-old is experienced beyond her years, having played four Origin games for NSW and two tests for Australia, as well as seven seasons of NRLW.

She was also involved in three title wins, with the Roosters in 2021 and the Knights’ back-to-back premierships in 2022 and 2023.

JETSETTING COWBOY

Queensland Origin forward Shaniah Power has signed a one-year deal with Wigan.

The 27-year-old has played the past two seasons with North Queensland but has taken a leap of faith by moving to the other side of the world for a season in the Women’s Super League.

Shaniah Power is leaving Australian shores. Picture: NRL Photos

She becomes one of the highest profile players to make a switch from the NRLW to the northern hemisphere.

Wigan announced the deal on Thursday morning.

“I’m beyond excited to go on this journey with the Warriors and to make new lifelong friends,” she said.

Head coach Denis Betts said: “It’s fantastic news, not just for us but for the whole league to get a girl of her quality coming over here playing in this competition.

“We think she’s going to bring so much, not just as an individual but as a team player as well. She’s got great leadership skills, she’s already made an impression on the girls with her understanding and knowledge of the game.”