Ascertaining the recent spectacle swirling around the rugby world, the New Zealand Warriors confirmed that Dally M Prop of the Year, Addin Fonua-Blake, has appealed for an immediate release from his contract, citing compassionate grounds.
In the midst of a contract with three remaining years, Fonua-Blake unveiled his desire to return to his roots in Sydney. Confirming the news, the Warriors affirmed, “The club is contemplating Fonua-Blake’s request for an early release.”
At the age of 27, Fonua-Blake is a central pillar propelling the Warriors’ success. He staged a significant role in steering the team back into the finals this season, reigniting the Warrior’s fervor among the New Zealand public.
Last season’s highest-paid prop forward in the National Rugby League, Fonua-Blake’s hefty price tag hasn’t deterred multiple clubs from wooing him. Dragons coach Shane Flanagan expressed his interest, alluding to Fonua-Blake’s initial playing years within the Red V.
Equally, the Bulldogs camp, in dire need of an elite middle forward after losing substantial powerhouses, is keen to draft Fonua-Blake. The sought-after player concluded the 2023 season boasting the most significant running metres among front-rowers, garnered nine tries, and achieved 35 fruitful offloads.
The Warriors are unequivocally disheartened by this news, especially after just announcing the contract extension, until the end of 2025, of prolific try-scorer Dallin Watene-Zelezniak.
Coach Andrew Webster of the Warriors reflected on Dallin’s successes, “His contribution to the team, from tremendously reliable defense to his scoring prowess, has truly impacted everyone. He has emerged as one of the competition’s finest wingers, reliably understand where he’s needed most for the team to succeed.”
The narrative of Fonua-Blake continues to evolve, embodying an intriguing twist in an already compelling world of Rugby.
