Wests Tigers have finally confirmed the signing of gun pivot Billy Walters on a two-year deal from the Melbourne Storm.
While he’s the son of Queensland Origin coach Kevin, 25-year-old Billy has been quietly making a name for himself in the Intrust Super Cup with Easts Tigers.
A goal-kicking half or hooker, Walters had seven tries, nine try assists, nine linebreak assists, 70 tackle breaks and over 100 running metres per game in 17 appearances.
Walters made two appearances for Melbourne this year; his debut against St George Illawarra in round 16 and off the bench against the Rabbitohs in round 21.
“I’m pleased to have someone with Billy’s professionalism and talent join our club,” Wests Tigers coach Michael Maguire said. “He has the ability to control a game really well in a number of different positions and will offer strong attacking threat for us.
“Billy has grown a lot in a professional environment over the past few years, and I’m excited to see him take his game to a new level at Wests Tigers in the years ahead.”
Walters’ chance of having first crack at Robbie Farah’s vacant No.9 jersey will surely be a hot topic during Tuesday afternoon’s Wests Tigers fan Q & A, featuring Maguire and CEO Justin Pascoe.
On the record. 🎙
— Wests Tigers (@WestsTigers) September 30, 2019
Comment below your questions, and we'll answer them tomorrow with a special Wests Tigers Coach and CEO Q&A!#OurJunglehttps://t.co/fErlNZucBA
Tigers fans will surely be seeking some clarity on why Ryan Matterson – just one-year into a three-year deal – was given permission to negotiate with other clubs.
Of the Wests Tigers players without a contract for 2020, Farah is retiring, Mahe Fonua is heading back to Hull, Chris Lawrence is without a deal and Robbie Rochow has called time on his career.
An official farewell to @RobbieRochow who calls time on his #NRL career.
— Wests Tigers (@WestsTigers) September 16, 2019
Thanks for the service, Chow, and all the best in the future. 👏#OurJungle pic.twitter.com/GWJwUOLVjZ
