AAP Rugby

Veteran Gagai shuns Roosters to re-sign with Knights

By AAP Newswire

May 10, 2024

Dane Gagai (centre). — In-form veteran Dane Gagai (centre) has signed a two-year extension with the Knights. -AAP Image

Newcastle have fended off the circling Roosters to secure in-form centre Dane Gagai for another two seasons.

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The deal locks in the veteran until the end of the 2026 season, which would be the 33-year-old's 16th in the NRL.

Gagai, who has played 178 games for the Knights over nine seasons, had been linked with a move to Bondi next year after a hot start to the season.

But the Maroons and Kangaroos representative dispelled the rumours on Friday, committing himself to the Hunter by agreeing to a mutual option for the final year of his deal with the Knights.

"Dane is one of the best outside backs in the NRL and playing as well as ever," crowed a delighted Knights director of football Peter Parr.

He said re-signing Gagai would benefit the team on the field as well as assist and educate the Knights' crop of rising stars.

"When you combine his on-field performance, experience and leadership, Dane is a highly valued member of our club," Parr said.

Gagai has scored two tries for the 11th-placed Knights this season and has taken on goal-kicking duties in the absence of injured playmaker Kalyn Ponga.

By AAP Newswire

Australian Associated Press