Melbourne sign Sam Kasiano, re-sign Nelson Asofa-Solomona

STAFF WRITERS | July 6, 2017 - 1:15pm

Melbourne Storm have boosted their forward pack for the future, with Nelson Asofa-Solomona agreeing to terms with the Club and Sam Kasiano joining Storm for the next three years.

Asofa-Solomona has committed to remain in Melbourne until at least the end of 2019.

The new two-year deal is great news for the Storm faithful who have seen the 21-year-old develop into one of the NRL’s most exciting young forwards.

Today’s announcement sees Asofa-Solomona and Kasiano join fellow big men Jesse Bromwich, Dale Finucane, Tim Glasby Kenny Bromwich, Felise Kaufusi, Christian Welch and Joe Stimson as part of Storm’s forward pack in 2018 and beyond.

Asofa-Solomona has played 42 games since making his debut in 2015 and has begun to establish himself in a dynamic role off the bench for Craig Bellamy’s side. The unique size and skill of the Junior Kiwi consistently makes him a handful for opposing defences.

Storm Football Director Frank Ponissi said the Club was thrilled to retain Asofa-Solomona.

“Nelson has so much potential and we are delighted he has chosen to remain with us in Melbourne.

“He came here as a 17-year-old so to see him make this city his home and develop in the manner he has is a great testament to him and our coaches and staff who have worked closely with him.

“We are confident that Nelson will continue to apply himself to make sure he makes the most of the enormous potential he has. It is fantastic for all our fans who will now be able to watch him take that next step in his career.

In another key signing, Bulldogs prop Kasiano will join Melbourne in 2018 in a deal that will see him wear the purple jersey until at least the end of 2020.

The 26-year-old will bring a wealth of experience to Melbourne, having played 133 NRL games for the Bulldogs to date, including four finals campaigns in the last seven seasons.

He is also a dual international having representing both Samoa and New Zealand.

A powerful runner and on-field enforcer, Kasiano is a welcome inclusion into a Storm pack that is already full of young and exciting talent.

Ponissi said the Club was pleased to secure the quality prop, “Sam is an experienced and skillful front rower who we believe can add a different dimension to our team.

“We are very happy with how our pack has developed in recent seasons and signing a player of Sam’s quality will only help us continue to improve as a football team.

“We were very impressed on Sam’s enthusiasm and excitement to come to the Melbourne Storm and we are looking forward to welcoming Sam and his family to the Club in November.”