South Sydney Rabbitohs sign New Zealand outside back Leini Fanua

The South Sydney Rabbitohs have signed outside back Leini Fanua to a two-year deal. The contract runs through the end of the 2028 season and includes a position within the club's development squad. Fanua, a junior player who previously participated in the New Zealand Warriors Southern Zone Academy, will link up with the Rabbitohs ahead of the 2027 season. He developed his skills in Invercargill and previously represented the Tongan under-15 side. His recruitment comes as NRL clubs increasingly look to New Zealand for emerging talent, coinciding with discussions regarding a potential 20th league franchise based in Christchurch. Fanua will spend the next 24 months working through the South Sydney pathways as part of his development contract.

• 8:21 PMZero Tackle NRL — South Sydney Rabbitohs move to sign New Zealand youngster