“Strong addition”: Bennett’s Dolphins sign an ex-boxer, and TPJ makes an unexpected NRL comeback — Transfer Center.

Tevita Pangai Junior will play for the Dolphins in the NRL for the balance of the 2024 season, the team has confirmed.

According to reports, the 28-year-old will join the Dolphins on Monday for training after leaving Queensland Cup team Souths Logan Magpies the following week.

Then, having previously left rugby league to pursue a boxing career, he will be qualified to play in the NRL again in Round 15.

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“I am eagerly anticipating Tevita’s return to the field, and I’m delighted that it’s with the Dolphins,” stated Wayne Bennett in a statement released by the club. “He’s a talented player whom I’ve always enjoyed coaching, and I believe he will significantly bolster our squad.”

Pangai Junior’s connection with Bennett runs deep, with the renowned coach originally recruiting the forward to join the Broncos back in 2016. Following stints with the Panthers and Bulldogs, Pangai Junior briefly left the NRL for boxing before his return.

“I’m greatly looking forward to being under the guidance of both Wayne and Kristian Woolf, as I’ve had a longstanding relationship with both of them,” Pangai Junior expressed. “I’m thrilled to be back in the NRL and aiming to solidify my position as a full-time NRL player, while also contributing to what the Dolphins can achieve this season.”

In other NRL news, the Dragons have secured fullback Tyrell Sloan for another two years, extending his contract until the conclusion of the 2026 season. The 22-year-old has already amassed 48 games for St George Illawarra since his debut in 2021 and has impressed head coach Shane Flanagan, scoring eight tries in 12 games this season.

“Tyrell is a dynamic young talent who continues to progress and enhance his skills week after week,” Flanagan remarked in a club statement. “His dedication to refining all aspects of his game this year has been commendable. We look forward to witnessing his continued growth at the Dragons in the coming seasons.”

Meanwhile, the North Queensland Cowboys have announced the signing of Kai O’Donnell for the 2025 season, marking his return to the NRL after last appearing in 2020. Despite struggling to break into the Cowboys academy and later the Titans, O’Donnell found success with the Raiders before venturing to the UK to play for the Leigh Leopards.

Following a successful stint that saw him guide Leigh to the Super League and claim the Challenge Cup, O’Donnell, despite extending his contract with the English club, has opted for a return to the NRL, signing a two-year deal with the Cowboys. It marks a remarkable comeback for the 25-year-old Brisbane native.