The New Zealand Warriors have solidified their roster by re-signing three promising players as they plan for the future. Ahead of their upcoming match against the Dolphins, the Warriors confirmed that Kalani Going and Tanner Stowers-Smith have agreed to stay with the team on development contracts for the 2025 NRL season. Additionally, Motu Pasikala has secured a long-term commitment with the club, signing a three-year contract that will keep him with the Warriors until at least the end of the 2027 season.
Kalani Going, who made his NRL debut last season, has become a key player for the Warriors. Although he only played in one NRL match, he has excelled in the NSW Cup, where he was named the Warriors’ NSW Cup Player of the Year in 2023. Going’s experience and consistent performance have made him a valuable asset to the team, particularly as a mentor for younger players.
Tanner Stowers-Smith, a highly skilled second-rower, has also made significant strides in his development. Earlier this season, he captained the team’s SG Ball Cup squad before advancing to the NSW Cup. Despite his progress, Stowers-Smith remains eligible to compete in the SG Ball Cup and Jersey Flegg Cup next season, providing the Warriors with a versatile and talented player who can contribute across multiple levels.
The most significant signing out of the trio is that of Motu Pasikala, an explosive outside back with a strong background in schoolboy rugby union. At just 18 years old, Pasikala has already made his mark in the SG Ball Cup, Jersey Flegg Cup, and NSW Cup competitions this season. His three-year contract reflects the Warriors’ belief in his potential to become a key player for the club in the coming years.
Andrew McFadden, the New Zealand Warriors’ general manager of recruitment, pathways, and development, expressed his excitement about the re-signings in a statement. He highlighted the impact of the team’s development system in producing talented players like Going, Stowers-Smith, and Pasikala. McFadden praised the trio for their contributions to the team, noting that Going’s experience and consistency are crucial for guiding younger players, while Stowers-Smith and Pasikala have seized every opportunity to prove themselves.
These re-signings underscore the Warriors’ commitment to nurturing homegrown talent and building a strong foundation for the future. As the team prepares for the remainder of the season and beyond, the continued development of players like Going, Stowers-Smith, and Pasikala will be instrumental in the Warriors’ pursuit of success in the NRL.
