Origin forward signs new Titans deal

Queensland State of Origin forward Ashley Harrison has signed a new contract with Gold Coast to keep him with the Titans until the end of 2012.

Harrison was already committed to the Jetstar Titans until the end of the 2010 season but elected to seal his future early and sign an extended deal for a further two seasons.

His re-signing comes as a further boost for the Jetstar Titans, with the majority of the club’s forward pack – including fellow representative players Anthony Laffranchi and Luke Bailey – locked in to longterm deals.

Harrison, who has played 191 NRL games, said he was pleased to have secured his future with the Jetstar Titans after playing consistently since returning to Queensland in 2008 after stints with the Sydney Roosters (2006-07) and South Sydney Rabbitohs (2003-05).

“I see the club as heading in a really positive direction and I think I’ve played some of my best footy here at the Titans,’’ said Harrison.

“Being closer to my family has made me feel more settled and I’m more than happy to stay.

“You don’t really realise the importance of family until you move away and come back. I think my future is in Queensland.’’

Jetstar Titans managing director Michael Searle said Harrison’s re-signing would ensure he remains a key member of the forward pack.

“Ashley has formed part of the nucleus of our side over the past two years and I’m pleased that he will continue to do so well into the future,’’ said Searle.

“He is an experienced player who leads by example and his decision to stay with the club means our forward pack can continue to build on what they’ve been doing over the past few seasons.’’

Harrison will line-up for his sixth State of Origin match for Queensland in game three of this year’s series at Suncorp Stadium on Wednesday night.