Former international poached by Super League outfit

Axel Fitzgibbon

Former international poached by Super League outfit image

The Super League has poached yet another experienced NRL player.

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This time its the Raiders' Frank-Paul Nuuasaula.

The burley front-rower has penned a three-and-a-half year deal with Wigan Warriors, who currently sit second on the Super League ladder.

St Helens were also reportedly in pursuit of the former New Zealand international, but Wigan won the race.

"Frank-Paul is exactly the kind of player we want at Wigan," coach Shaun Wane said.

"He's a very tough player who really throws himself into the action and is used to winning. He's also very experienced having played in the World Cup final, the Australian Grand Final and the World Club Challenge.

"We've not had much luck with injuries this year and this signing is exactly the kind of boost we need, at this time, as we look to mount a serious challenge for trophies.

"The Wigan fans are really going to enjoy watching Frank-Paul play for us."

The 29-year-old has struggled for playing time at Canberra this season and believes the move has come at an appropriate time in his career. 

"I've achieved everything that I can in my career in the NRL and, whilst still in my prime as a prop-forward, want to experience the challenge of Super League.

"It would be great to win the Grand Final over there as well and the Challenge Cup at Wembley and joining a strong and successful club like Wigan gives me that best opportunity.

"I'm looking forward to pulling on the famous cherry-and-white jersey for the first time and playing in the uniquely passionate environment of rugby league in England."

Nuuausala won the NRL Premiership with the Roosters back in 2013 and has recorded 15 caps for the Kiwis. 

Axel Fitzgibbon