NRL Market Watch: Maika Sivo granted early release, Eels sign young duo Joash Papalii and Jordan Samrani from Bulldogs

After over 100 tries for the Eels, Maika Sivo’s time at Parramatta has come to an end. It comes as Jason Ryles lands two young rising stars in a double raid from their Sydney rivals. NRL MARKET WATCH.

Joash Papalii has had to wait for his shot in the NRL. Credit: NRL Images.

The flying winger is flying out.

Parramatta has formally granted Fijian powerhouse Maika Sivo an early release.

Sivo, 31, had another three years to run at Parramatta.

He is expected to move to Super League and link with former coach Brad Arthur at Leeds Rhinos.

It was only a day ago that Sivo denied he was being moved on, despite being given permission by Parramatta to find another club.

He has played 115 games for Parramatta since joining the club in 2019, scoring a remarkable 104 tries.

Maika Sivo’s time at the Eels is over. Picture: Brendon Thorne/Getty Images

“We would like to extend our deepest gratitude to Maika, his partner Korina, and his family for their time with us. We wish them all the very best in their future endeavors, both in rugby league and beyond,” said Parramatta general manager of football, Mark O’Neill.

Sivo scored 17 tries in just 12 NRL games this season.

An Eels statement read: “The Parramatta Eels wish to announce that Maika Sivo has been granted a release from his contract for the 2025 season to pursue opportunities that will allow him to further his career elsewhere.

“Maika has been an integral part of our club since joining in 2019 when he finished as the top try scorer in the NRL.

Maika Sivo scored over a century of tries in his time at the Eels. Picture: Scott Gardiner/Getty Images

“Over his 115 NRL games with the club he has brought excitement, power, and become a fan favourite with the Blue and Gold Army, we thank him for his dedication and service to the Eels.

“Maika will always be a part of the Eels family, and we look forward to seeing him succeed in the next chapter of his career.”

Sivo played for Fiji against PNG in a Pacific Championships Test last weekend in Suva.

EELS POACH RISING STARS IN DOUBLE RAID ON RIVALS

New Parramatta coach Jason Ryles has landed an early blow against western Sydney rival Canterbury, poaching two young rising stars from Belmore.

The Eels have secured fullback Joash Papalii and versatile back Jordan Samrani for the next two seasons effective immediately.

Papalii was on a development deal at Canterbury, while Samrani was signed to the top 30 roster until the end of season 2025.

The addition of Papalii comes after the Eels also landed rising Panthers fullback Isaiah Iongi.

Given the uncertain future of skipper and long-term No.1 Clint Gutherson at Parramatta, the signatures of Papalii and Iongi will give Ryles added depth at fullback.

The former Australian Schoolboy can also provide cover in multiple positions including five-eighth and hooker.

Joash Papalii can provide value in a number of roles across the park. Picture: NRL Images.

Jordan Samrani is also a versatile player. Picture: NRL Photos

“Joash is an incredibly exciting young talent who possesses great speed and agility. He has previously represented Australian Schoolboys and NSW Under 19s and will add great depth to our NRL playing squad,” Eels general manager Mark O’Neill said.

“Jordan is a big man, predominantly an outside back who can also add versatility to our squad.

“He has already shown great promise and we’re excited to see how he further develops within our program.”

Backrower Matt Doorey has also agreed to a one-year extension, keeping him at Parramatta until the end of 2026.

Originally published as NRL Market Watch: Maika Sivo granted early release, Eels sign young duo Joash Papalii and Jordan Samrani from Bulldogs