Bailey commits to Titans

Gold Coast have handed long-serving prop Luke Bailey a new two-year contract at the club.

Bailey, 31, was co-captain in the Titans’ inaugural NRL season in 2007 and has made 201 appearances, winning the Paul Broughton Medal, awarded to the club’s best and fairest player, on two occasions.

Managing Director Michael Searle said: “We are really pleased to be able to provide Luke with an additional two years in the NRL and at the Jetstar Titans given he has been competing at the highest level statistically this season.

“He has greatly benefited from a modification of his training regime and I firmly believe his work rate in attack and defence make him one of the most valuable props in the game.

“Being our inaugural co-captain and a natural leader of men on the field gives our club great pleasure to think he is most likely now going to finish his career at our club.”

Bailey has played four tests for Australia as well as 15 State of Origin matches for New South Wales but said the drive to win a maiden premiership convinced him to stay at the club and not consider a move to Super League.

He said: “I’ve still got a burning desire to go another step further in the NRL before I go anywhere else, a bit of unfinished business,’’ said Bailey.

“I love it here on the Gold Coast and I’m excited to still be a part of what we’re building here at the Titans. We’ve gone close over the last couple of years and I’d love to tick that last remaining box.”