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Dallin Watene-Zelezniak joining Warriors immediately on long-term deal - report

June 17, 2021
NEWCASTLE, AUSTRALIA - JULY 12: Dallin Watene-Zelezniak of the Bulldogs is tackled by the Knights defence during the round 17 NRL match between the Newcastle Knights and the Canterbury Bulldogs at McDonald Jones Stadium on July 12, 2019 in Newcastle, Australia. (Photo by Ashley Feder/Getty Images)

Kiwis captain Dallin Watene-Zelezniak is reportedly joining the Warriors immediately on a three-and-a-half year contract after being released by the Bulldogs.

Stuff reports a deal has been struck to bring Watene-Zelezniak to the Kiwi NRL club immediately. The deal would see him through to the end of the 2024 season.

It’s understood Watene-Zelezniak, who has been playing fullback for Canterbury, is happy to shift from the No.1 jersey to the wing for prodigy Reece Walsh to remain in the role.

Watene-Zelezniak’s arrival is a big boost for the club, not only in talent but also leadership with current captain Roger Tuivasa-Sheck leaving at the end of the season to chase his All Blacks dream in rugby union.

Stuff reports the 25-year-old is expected to play his first Warriors game on July 2 when the team plays the Dragons.

Watene-Zelezniak moved to Australia when he was five after being born in Hamilton but has always remained strongly connected to his Kiwi roots, partly thanks to his great-grandfather Steve Watene, who was the first Māori to captain the Kiwis.

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