David Fifita wants to play one last season with twin Andrew in Australia

Wakefield prop David Fifita says he would love to play one last season with his twin Andrew back home in Australia.

The 33-year-old will return home to Australia at the end of the season to be closer to his friends and family, bringing his seven-year spell with Wakefield to an end.

Fifita has made 140 appearances for Trinity since arriving from NRL side Cronulla Sharks in 2016.

The former Tonga international made his final appearance at Belle Vue in Trinity’s 18-6 win over Hull KR on Thursday night.

And he says he only made the decision to depart Wakefield recently, but hopes to play on for at least one more season with his brother Andrew, who recently announced his departure from Cronulla.

He said: “It was late, only a week or two ago. I spoke to the family. We’ve been through a tough month with a few losses.

“We’ve had grandparents passing away back home, it’s been tough. We couldn’t get home last year, I haven’t been home for three years.

“I’m a family man and I just need to get back home to family and friends.

“I just feel the time is right. My brother has just come out and said he wants to play one last year, whether it’s A grade or some sort of footy, I just want to play with him.

“I’m excited for the next chapter, I’m excited for my wife and kids, actually growing up with their cousins. I’ve still got nieces and nephews I’ve not met yet.”

Wakefield secure Super League status for 2023

Wakefield’s victory over Hull KR was their fourth win in their last five games, with Willie Poching’s side ensuring Super League survival.

“Honestly it was the best feeling I’ve ever had,” said Fifita, who climbed into the stands after the full-time hooter to celebrate with the fans.

“It’s a great feeling and to top it off with two points and safety for next year, I’m over the moon.

“I wanted to go out with a bang, I promised I’d get some sort of points and I ended up kicking a goal. I told them I can kick and they didn’t believe me.”

REPORT: Wakefield 18-6 Hull KR: Trinity secure Super League status

David Fifita: It’s tough to leave Wakefield

Fifita, who had a spell in French rugby league with Lezignan earlier in his career, says he will leave Wakefield with no regrets.

He said: “It’s tough to walk away from this. There’s been plenty of opportunities to go to another club, your so-called bigger teams, but I’ve loved this club through and through.

“I love what they’re doing here, they’re building for the future. You can see the up-and-coming players come through this year and I want to give way to them.

“At least I know I’ve left it in good hands. They’re here for next year in the Super League.”

Cook Islands international Tinirau Arona will also depart Trinity at the season’s end, along with James Batchelor and Tom Johnstone, who are heading to Hull KR and Catalans Dragons respectively.

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