New Zealand Warriors breakout talent Taine Tuaupiki was hoping to activate a secret clause that could see him head to the Super League. However, the club has blocked the request.
In February this year, Tuaupiki signed a two-year extension to remain at the Warriors until the end of the 2028 season.
He has made the fullback position his own, and, with injuries to key players in the backline, has shuffled Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad into the outside backs.
Code Sports has reported that Tuapiki will stay in the NRL after his request was denied.
It was reported in the UK last week that the fullback had been looking to be released from his contract with the Warriors.
Members of the Warriors staff remain optimistic that Tuaupiki has not slipped as they prepare for the semi-final match against the Newcastle Knights on Sunday afternoon.
There is a clause in his contract that allows the 27-year-old to exit the final year of his deal to join the Super League.
Within the Tuaupiki camp, there is confidence he could secure a contract to become one of the highest-paid players in the UK with a deal starting in 2027 and beyond.
Cameron George, the Warriors CEO, confirmed they have blocked Tuaupiki's request and he will stay until his contract ends.
“Despite the rumours or otherwise, Taine is contracted to the Warriors for the next two years,” George told Code Sports.
“He does have an option for the Super League in 2028; however, there's no appetite from our end of losing Taine.”
