The Penrith Panthers have held onto another player following the mass exodus at the club over the last few seasons.
Anthony Griffin and Gus Gould have convinced Fijian powerhouse Viliame Kikau to extend his contract at the foot of the mountains until at least the end of the 2022 season, with his original deal expiring at the end of 2019.
Matt Moylan, Tyrone Peachey, Bryce Cartwright, Mitch Rein, Leilani Latu and Peta Hiku have all left Penrith for differing reasons, so the coach and general manager will be enthused that they have been able to retain Kikau's talents.
This news becomes even more impressive considering that the Panthers recently re-signed NSW Blues prop Reagan Campbell-Gillard on a long-term deal.
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Kikau has gone from strength to strength in his second season at the club after much was made of him after a starring performance for Fiji at the 2017 Rugby League World Cup.
Gus was thrilled with the news.
"Viliame is an incredible young man," Gould said via the Panthers' website.
"His story is a source of inspiration for all youngsters who dream of playing in the NRL, not the least of which will be the many young kids from his homeland in Fiji.
"We are very lucky to have him at our club as 'Billy' has now established himself as one of the most promising forwards in the NRL."
🚨🚨🚨#pantherpride 🐾 pic.twitter.com/UK7PJygqKD
— Penrith Panthers (@PenrithPanthers) July 18, 2018
The player himself was overjoyed at the thought of playing with the Panthers in the future.
"It's very exciting to know I'll be at Panthers for the next few years," Kikau said.
"There are so many talented players at the club and I really enjoy their company.
"It was a big decision to re-sign and I made it with the full support of my family, which is most important to me.
"I know this is just the beginning and I can't wait to see what the future brings."
