Sione Mata’utia extends St Helens stay

St Helens have re-signed back-rower Sione Mata’utia to a new 12-month contract for the 2023 season. 

Mata’utia, 25, joined the club originally on a two-year deal with the option of a third after his release from Newcastle Knights in 2020.

The champions have triggered the clause for the third year, keeping him at the Totally Wicked Stadium until at least the end of 2023.

Mata’utia scored five tries in 22 appearances in his debut year with the club in 2021. He missed out on the Challenge Cup final victory at Wembley due to suspension, but featured in the Super League Grand Final at Old Trafford.

He has made a total of 31 appearances for the club, crossing for eight tries.

Sione Mata’utia on new contract

“I am glad to get the extra 12 months agreed and I am looking forward to the year ahead,” Mata’utia said.

“When we get there [to further contract negotiations] I would love to stay for longer. But obviously I do also have to think about my partner and my kids who are away from home. We will see how it goes and there is a lot of time before we have to look at that.

“It took me 12 months or so to fit into the group and figure out where I could add some value and take my game to the next level. But I feel like I have started the year well and although things didn’t go my way with injuries, I am excited about the rest of the year and next season!”

Kristian Woolf on new deal

Head coach Kristian Woolf added: “The fact Sione has chosen to take up the extension with us is a great sign for this club and this team in terms of the direction we are going in.

“I worked with him at Newcastle Knights so I know the character and player he is. He has proven that again and he was the best back rower in the comp in the early rounds here this season. Through injuries has had to play in the centres and has shown his versatility which is another reason we signed him.

“He is a great person around the group and a good fit for us going forward and I am looking forward to seeing him continue to improve.”

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