One of the most in-demand forwards in the NRL, Dylan Lucas, has re-committed his future at the Newcastle Knights.
His signature, which will keep him at the club until the end of 2030, is a major boost ahead of the side’s clash with the Melbourne Storm at AAMI Park on Friday 5 June.
Fresh from earning selection in the NSW Blues squad for game one, the 25-year-old underlined just how important he is to Justin Holbrook’s outfit with another powerful performance in last weekend’s win over the Parramatta Eels at McDonald Jones Stadium.
Lucas produced an elite 80-minute effort, finishing with 46 tackles, 154 running metres and two long-range tries in the thrilling victory.
Holbrook admitted the youngster’s positive influence on the organisation was enormous.
“Dylan’s work ethic is outstanding,” he said.
“The intensity he trains and plays with every day is infectious on his teammates and everyone around him.
“He’s become a genuine leader.
“He backs himself with a respectful self-confidence that has a huge impact and influence on the standards of this group.
“Dylan typifies everything we want a Knights player to represent.
“He is a great person, honest and tough… and we are thrilled he has decided to stay with the club.”
Head of recruitment Peter O’Sullivan explained Lucas had taken his game to an elite level.
“Dylan’s been a revelation on our team over the past few years,” he said.
“With his line running, speed, athleticism and edge defence, he’s now the complete package.
“Dylan has matured into one of the side’s most influential leaders, he is analytical, vocal and drives standards both on and off the field.
“He loves this club, he loves representing the region and he is exactly the sort of person and player we want helping drive this group forward.”
Newcastle’s director of football Chris James echoed those sentiments.
“The momentum we have built through this period of re-signings is not accidental,” he said.
“It reflects a clear direction, a strong culture and a genuine belief that the best days for the Knights are ahead of us.
“Keeping Dylan is a very important part of that.”
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