The Newcastle Knights are now planning for the 2025 season, having suffered a heartbreaking defeat against the Manly Sea Eagles in the NRL finals.

A number of the Knights’ star players have been linked with a move away from the club in the off-season, with the club reportedly in the market to strengthen in the halves.

Jackson Hastings is one of several names to have been rumoured to be making a return to England as part of this rebuild, with forward, Jack Hetherington, also pouring cold water on links with a Super Legue switch.

The tireless Mat Croker was also linked with a departure, as reports emerged that the Knights would not be extending his deal beyond the end of the current season.

However, those reports have now been quashed, as it has been announced that he has signed a new deal to keep him in Newcastle.

Mat Croker extends Newcastle Knights deal

A statement on the Newcastle Knights website has announced that Croker has signed a new deal which will keep him at the club for the 2025 season.

In the statement, the Knights’ Director of Rugby, Peter Parr, praised Croker’s contribution to the club’s charge into NRL Finals contention and believes he has played some of his best rugby for the club this season.

He said: “We are pleased Mat has extended his stay with the Knights, “ Parr said.

“He has played some of his best football this year. Mat is an integral part of the team and a major contributor both on and off the field.

“We are delighted that someone of his quality is remaining at the Club.”

Croker made 16 appearances for the Knights last season, as they finished eighth in the regular season NRL ladder, scoring one try in their round 20 game against the Brisbane Broncos.

Market for NRL props narrowing for Super League sides

With the news that Croker has signed a contract with the Knights for 2025, options are beginning to narrow for Super League sides looking to bolster their forward packs for next season.

Australian World Cup winner, Regan Campbell-Gillard was one name linked with a move to the UK. However, he now appears destined for a move to the Gold Coast Titans. Croker’s team-mate, Hetherington, has also distanced himself from a move.

However, options do remain on the market. Peter Hola was linked with Super League last season and is yet to announce his next move. Tepai Moeroa has also stated his ambition to test himself in the UK once his deal with Melbourne Storm expires.

Matthew Lodge of the Manly Sea Eagles also looks set to hit the open market, having reportedly turned down a two-year contract worth $150,000 per season.

With several Super League sides known to be looking to strengthen their front row, competition for signings is set to be fierce.