Warriors firm for 2017 NRL flag after Foran is cleared to play

THE New Zealand Warriors have moved into $13 for the NRL premiership at Sportsbet.com.au after the league confirmed that former Parramatta superstar Kieran Foran has been cleared to play for his new side.

26-year-old Foran – who will not be eligible to make his debut across the Tasman until round three – walked away from the game in 2016 to gain control of his life after succumbing to a number of personal issues.

NRL Chief Executive Todd Greenburg acknowledged on Wednesday that the Auckland-born playmaker has ticked all the required boxes to resume his playing career.

“The expert advice we recently received indicates that Kieran’s recovery has reached the point where he is physically and mentally fit to return to rugby league.” Greenberg said.

“Consequently, we have today registered his contract to play with the Warriors in 2017.”

Warriors halfback Shaun Johnson said getting away from the spotlight of Australia and immersing himself in the team has done wonders for Foran’s mental state.

“He’s coming along really well,” Johnson said.

“I’ve just been so happy to see him really start thinking about footy again. It’s really cool to be a part of that process.”

One of the most gifted players in the NRL, Foran – who is at the $26 quote via Sportsbet.com.au to win the 2017 Dally M medal – said he is itching to play round one, but understands the league and his new club are working together to ensure he is in the right frame of mind to play at the highest level.

“Naturally I would love to return in round one because I love rugby league and I love being part of the Warriors squad,” Foran said.

“But both the Warriors and NRL have put my welfare first throughout, so I am just happy that my contract is registered and I now have a date for my return.”

The Warriors started the season as big outsiders across the bookmakers’ boards, but have subsequently firmed in to $1.60 to make the finals after the positive news on their high profile recruit broke.

Warriors Chief Executive Joe Doyle said the organisation is confident their high profile recruit can come straight in and make an instant impact on the park.

“We have seen Kieran’s progress over the last few months and we are confident he will be ready for round three.

“Kieran has already become an integral part of the Warriors squad off the field and his teammates will be thrilled to see him back on the field.”