LeagueNews.co | Jason Patrick
The New Zealand Warriors have secured a promising halves prospect in Luke Hanson as they gear up for life after Shaun Johnson, who will retire at the end of the season.
Hanson, poached from the Penrith Panthers last season, has signed a contract extension with the Warriors that will see him on a development deal until 2025 with an option for the following year.
As the club gets ready for Johnson's final game against his former team, the Cronulla Sharks, on Saturday, they are placing their hopes on the young playmaker from St Dominics College.
Having risen through the ranks at the Panthers since 2020, Hanson showcased his skills in the Harold Matthews Cup, SG Ball Cup, and the Jersey Flegg Cup.
He was also part of the Panthers SG Ball Cup team that clinched the Grand Final in 2022, alongside NRL stars like Jesse McLean, Keagan Russell-Smith, Isaiya Katoa, and Mason Teague.