While the annual NRL market frenzy is set to kick off in the coming weeks, we have taken a look internally to see who your club should lock down before they look externally.

12. Penrith Panthers

Sione Katoa

Following the unfortunate injury and subsequent retirement of Peter Wallace mid-way through 2018, Sione Katoa has cemented himself as the Panthers starting hooker since.

Predominantly used as an interchange utility early on in his career, Katoa provides great versatility as he is able to cover the halves, back row, and his preferred hooker position.

Katoa is coming off his most prolific season to date with the mountain men, having contributed six-try assists in his 20 games last season. As well as recording a notable 94.2% efficiency over the early rounds of 2019, for context that would have placed him fifth for tackle efficiency in the entire competition in 2018.

Still learning his craft as a hooker, Katoa has displayed he has the potential to become a top player for Penrith through his rugged defensive style and dangerous running game. If Penrith does not lock down the Tongan international soon, I am sure another club will.

PENRITH, AUSTRALIA - AUGUST 05: Sione Katoa of the Panthers runs with the ball during the round 21 NRL match between the Penrith Panthers and the Canberra Raiders at Panthers Stadium on August 5, 2018 in Penrith, Australia. (Photo by Ryan Pierse/Getty Images)

6 COMMENTS

  2. Te Marie Martin? Would most likely make a useful centre. He has pace & backs up. Still a useless 5/8th & sets up very little.
    Sione Katoa? If the juniors there come up with a useful hooker? That player would have an easy run into first grade. Nothing so far from either hooker that they’ve been using.

  3. The Roosters I hope re-sign Tetevano. Such a hard worker and all round top player. The rumour is getting louder and louder George Burgess wants a Roosters contract, but Pangai Junior is being linked with the Roosters also. We already have our own Pangai Junior in Taukeiaho, Tetevano is the bloke we need to retain regardless of who is linked or rumoured to be after a position at the Chooks. Sydney Roosters also need to make sure they retain development program rookie big prop Poasa Faamausili long term as they have with Lindsay Collins until 2022💪🐔👍