Utility Martin signed until end of 2025 NRL season

Vodafone Warriors CEO Cameron George has confirmed Brisbane Broncos utility back Te Maire Martin has signed a three-year contract from the start of the 2023 NRL.

The 26-year-old Martin has made a remarkable return to the NRL this year after a bleed on the brain forced him out of the game in 2019.

Cleared to make a comeback this season, he played his first NRL match in three years when he lined up for the Brisbane Broncos against Canterbury Bankstown on April 22 and subsequently earned selection in the Kiwis’ squad for their mid-year Test against Mate Ma’a Tonga at Mount Smart Stadium in June.

“Te Maire’s comeback to the game has been outstanding and we’re delighted we’ve been able to bring him home to New Zealand to join the Vodafone Warriors,” said George.

“He’s another quality player who will further boost our roster for 2023.

“With his ability to play at fullback and in the halves he’s going to be a real asset for us.”

Martin becomes the eighth signing for next season joining earlier acquisitions Mitchell Barnett (Newcastle), Freddy Lussick (Sydney Roosters), Luke Metcalf (Cronulla Sutherland), Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad (Canberra), Marata Niukore (Parramatta), Ronald Volkman (Sydney Roosters) and Dylan Walker (Manly Warringah).

Martin began his NRL career with Penrith, making 13 appearances for the Panthers in 2016 and 2017; current Vodafone Warriors winger Dallin Watene-Zelezniak was a teammate when he made his debut in 2016.

He moved to North Queensland midway through 2017 finishing the season by playing in the grand final against Melbourne.

The Cowboys’ round seven match against the Bulldogs on April 26, 2019, was his last before being forced to step away from the game only to recover to make his comeback this year.

Martin has played four Tests for the Kiwis.