Former Dally M winner Roger Tuivasa-Sheck announces shock return to NRL

Former Dally M Medalist Roger Tuivasa-Sheck will be returning to rugby league in 2024.

It’s a major coup for NRL in the code wars against Rugby Union with the New Zealand international announcing his return for the Warriors.

Tuivasa-Sheck was the Warriors' first-ever player to receive the Dally M honour back in 2018 and was one of the most popular players during his time at the side.

However, in 2021 it was announced that he would be leaving NRL altogether in a bid to play rugby union football for the All-Blacks.

So far, he has made three appearances for New Zealand at the international Union level and has struggled to nail down a starting spot.

With the Warriors off to arguably their best start of an NRL season in years, it signals yet another promising direction for the Kiwi side.

They currently sit third in the ladder, and will only be spurred on with the news of their impending new teammate come next season.

The 29-year-old’s contract with the Auckland Blues expires at the end of this season.

He will begin a three-year deal with the Warriors in 2024.

Tuivasa-Sheck said, in a statement released by the Auckland Blues: “I've thoroughly enjoyed my time here at the Blues and made some great mates over the past two seasons.

"Out of respect for the Blues, my teammates, coaches and of course the fans, I'm not going into too much detail about my next move.

“One thing was clear to me though, once I knew what my future held, I wanted to announce this and quickly shift the focus back to this season."

Rookie coach Andrew Webster, who has been credited with turning his Warriors side into powerhouses this season, is keen to link up with the superstar.

Webster said: “Roger came to the club in my second season as an assistant coach in 2016 and he had a huge impact on the squad.

“That first year was cut short by his ACL injury but it was brilliant working with him. I’m super excited knowing he’s coming back to the club.”

Warriors CEO Cameron George said: “It’s hugely exciting knowing Roger is coming back to us, back to his home at Mount Smart Stadium.

“When he went to rugby union he did so knowing he was always welcome back here if he wished to return to rugby league. We couldn’t be more delighted it’s happening.

“He’s popular with the players and a real fan favourite. It’s going to be so good seeing him back in our jersey.”

Ever since his departure from NRL, the star-fullback has been linked with a move back to League.

And now, it’s finally happening.