Parramatta Eels center Waqa Blake could play in Super League in 2024

League Express can reveal the Fijian-born pilot has received no interest from rival NRL clubs about signing him and has therefore turned his attention to the northern hemisphere.
The 28-year-old has struggled to find form in previous years after signing a four-and-a-half-year contract with Parramatta midway through the 2019 season. Blake has progressed through the ranks at the Penrith Panthers, making his debut for the Mountain Men in 2015 and played 88 times, scoring 34 tries in the process.
At the Eels, the 28-year-old added to that tally of NRL appearances with a further 28 tries in 72 matches.
Born in Lautoka, Fiji, Blake’s family moved to Sydney, New South Wales, Australia when the current Eel was 9 years old.
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It may not have been the ending I wanted, but the truth is that I lived in my fairy tale for five years. » Parramatta Eels striker Andrew Davey has announced his retirement from rugby league after five seasons with the NRL.
Davey’s retirement comes after receiving advice from medical experts that he should hang up his boots.
Making his debut in 2020 with the Parramatta Eels, his career would span 44 NRL games over the next four years with spells at the Eels, Manly Sea Eagles and Canterbury Bulldogs.
He returned to the Eels in 2023 as a mid-season transfer in Round 10, but only managed 12 matches after suffering two concussions.
His career also includes winning the Mackay Cutters Rookie of the Year award in 2016, playing in the 2019 NSW Cup Grand Final and becoming the fourth oldest debutant in the NRL era with 28 years and 233 days old. “For a boxer from Central Queensland who was not expected to play a single NRL game, this career is something to be proud of,” Davey said in a statement.
“It may not have been the ending I wanted, but the truth is I’ve been living my fairy tale for five years.

“I would like to thank the administrative staff of the Parramatta Eels, the medical team and all the coaches at the club. The genuine care and support I received throughout this process was greatly appreciated and I could not have asked for better treatment in making this decision. “I am incredibly grateful to have such supportive family and friends and I am also proud of the lasting friendships I have made during my time in the NRL.”With Davey retiring, it is understood the Bulldogs will receive an exemption from the NRL, as they are paying part of his contract with the Eels after his surprise mid-season departure.
Parramatta Eels general manager of football Mark O’Neill spoke about Davey’s passing, wishing him all the best for the future.
“Andrew has always had an excellent work ethic and his desire and drive to succeed in the NRL is admirable,” O’Neill said.
“He is prepared for success beyond football and we wish him all the best for the future.”