South Sydney have handed Siliva Havili a new two-year deal after the 29-year-old showed his utility value last season during stints across the forward rotation, while also providing a spark off the bench.
“The goal is to win a premiership and I truly believe we can do that here at the Rabbitohs in the next few years,” Havili said.
The Bunnies fell short at the preliminary final stage for the fifth straight year in 2022 but with their spine locked down for the foreseeable future and a core of great attacking talent, they remain as contenders for the premiership once again this season.
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“It’s really exciting times and I can’t wait to see what we can achieve in the coming years,” Havili insisted.
Since debuting for the Warriors nearly a decade ago, the Tongan international has made 127 appearances in the NRL. Yet despite struggling to hold down a regular spot in the starting side at any of his previous clubs, Havili was impressive in the red and green jersey in 2022.
“Siliva had a great year for us,” South Sydney’s Head of Football, Mark Ellison, said. “Showing his utility value throughout the forward pack and providing punch for us whether he starts the game or comes off the interchange bench.”
Ellison also identified Havili’s standing within the changing room as a strong indicator of his leadership qualities with the experienced forward remaining in Redfern until at least 2025.
LESSSSGO! Liva will be wearing the Red & Green until at least the end of 2025 👏✍️❤️💚 Details: https://t.co/h7h5F8ohFA pic.twitter.com/gpC4DphOWq
— South Sydney Rabbitohs 🐰 (@SSFCRABBITOHS) January 24, 2023
“He has also proven to be a leader amongst the squad, particularly with the young Pasifika players at our club,” Ellison noted.
“He was a leading force behind our round three fundraising efforts for the tsunami-affected people of Tonga last season and he provides great guidance and strength for young guys like Keaon Koloamatangi, Davvy Moale, Josiah Karapani and Daniel Suluka Fifita.
“We’re all excited to see him extend his time here at the Rabbitohs and we’re looking forward to seeing him rip in again in 2023 and beyond.”
