LeagueNews.co | Jess Malloy
Taniela Otukolo, a former hooker for the New Zealand Warriors, has signed with the Canterbury Bulldogs in the NSW Cup competition for the upcoming season.
Otukolo, who last played in the NRL in 2022, will be looking to continue his rugby league career and eventually work his way back to the top league.
The 22-year-old played nine matches for the Warriors between 2021 and 2022 and is now focusing on impressing in reserve-grade to earn a spot in the NRL once again.
Otukolo was a product of the New Zealand Warriors' pathways system, having played in the SG Ball Cup and Jersey Flegg competitions before making his debut in first-grade.
He also represented Tonga in an international match and left the Warriors at the end of the 2023 season along with other players like Bayley Sironen, Ben Murdoch-Masila, and Viliami Vailea.
Otukolo's move to the Bulldogs provides him with an opportunity to showcase his talent and skills in a new environment as he looks to make strides in his professional rugby league career.
The report on Zero Tackle states, "Last playing in the NRL in 2022, Otukolo has joined the Canterbury Bulldogs in the NSW Cup competition following a one-year stint with the Western Clydesdales in the QLD Cup." This move represents a fresh start for Otukolo, who will be aiming to develop his game further and prove himself at a new club.
With his experience in both domestic and international competitions, Otukolo has the potential to make a significant impact for the Bulldogs in the NSW Cup and potentially earn a spot back in the NRL in the future.