Rugby League News: Konrad Hurrell Eager to Extend St Helens Stay
Tongan centre Konrad Hurrell has expressed his desire to remain with Super League champions St Helens beyond the current season, admitting, “I love it here.” The blockbusting 32-year-old has been a hugely popular figure since joining the club from Leeds Rhinos ahead of the 2022 campaign on an initial one-year deal.
Hurrell played a key role in Saints’ Grand Final triumph last year and scored in their famous World Club Challenge victory over Penrith Panthers. In June 2022, he extended his contract with Paul Wellens’ side until the end of the 2024 season, with an option for 2025 at the club’s discretion.
“I’d love to – who wouldn’t want to stay at Saints? I’m trying to be consistent every week so I can prove to the coaches that I can go again next year. This is the time to negotiate contracts, so hopefully I get the chance to stay at the club and be around the boys a bit longer.”
Following an outstanding performance in Friday’s 60-4 thrashing of Castleford Tigers, Hurrell revealed his hopes to continue donning the Red V in 2025. Head coach Wellens heaped praise on Hurrell’s display against Castleford, acknowledging that it had given him much to ponder regarding the player’s long-term future at the club.
“Absolutely, if he keeps playing like that,” Wellens said when asked if he would look to retain Hurrell beyond this season. The Saints boss highlighted Hurrell’s physical sacrifices and the challenges faced by Tongan players in maintaining their fitness, but stressed the team’s desire to keep the influential centre.
Hurrell, who spent two seasons at Leeds before joining their rivals, expressed his appreciation for the success he has enjoyed at St Helens, having won the Challenge Cup with the Rhinos and the Grand Final and League Leaders’ Shield with the Saints.
“When you start winning things, you want it even more,” he said.
As Hurrell aims to secure another year at the club, he is also looking forward to the arrival of his second child in September, highlighting the role of fatherhood in his maturation process.
🔗 Source
