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GORDON RELEASED BY TITANS TO RETURN TO RUGBY UNION

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The Gold Coast Titans have officially released Carter Gordon from the final year of his contract to return to rugby union and the Wallabies after reaching a financial settlement with Rugby Australia.

“The Gold Coast Titans can confirm Carter Gordon has been granted an early release from the final year of his contract following a comprehensive financial settlement with Rugby Australia,” the club said in a statement.

“With only one year remaining on his Titans contract, the club moved decisively to negotiate terms that serve its best interests.

“After thorough negotiations, the Titans have agreed to an immediate release that prioritises the club’s long-term roster management.

“The Titans would like to thank Gordon for his contribution to the club during his time on the Gold Coast and wish him and his family all the best in his future endeavours.”

Gordon only managed one game for the Titans in the final round of last season after joining the club ahead of the 2024 season.

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He suffered a cerebrospinal fluid leak that held him back from trying to break into the Titans’ halves.

“The Titans provided extensive support throughout Gordon’s injury and recovery to enable his maiden NRL appearance,” the club said.

Despite falling short of his goals in the NRL, Gordon thanked the Titans for the opportunity to test himself in rugby league.

“I’ve thoroughly enjoyed my time at the Titans and am thankful for the opportunity the club has given me to experience a taste of the NRL,” Gordon said.

“I’m extremely appreciative of the support I received during my injury this year, with the club going above and beyond to get me back on the field playing footy.

“I’ll be forever grateful for my NRL journey with the Titans and wish the club the best of luck in the future.”

Carter Gordon returns to rugby union after one game for the Titans.Source: News Corp Australia

HOLBROOK SIGNS LEGEND IN COACHING OVERHAUL

Justin Holbrook has reportedly made his first major move since taking over as Newcastle coach, signing Knights legend Danny Buderus as his assistant.

Buderus, who played 257 times for the Knights, has been working in a development role but according to CODE Sport will become Holbrook’s right hand man for the 2026 season.

“Firstly his character alone, in the way he always played the game is what we need to instil into the group,” Holbrook said of Buderus’ appointment.

“He’s the most capped Knights player and I want to utilise him a lot more in terms of coaching.”

The move is part of a major backroom overhaul of the Knights following Adam O’Brien’ departure in the wake of a disastrous season which saw the side finish with the wooden spoon.

Buderus joins Brett White and Steve Hales as Holbrook’s main men in the Hunter.

O’Brien’s assistant Brian McDermott has moved to the Titans under rookie coach Josh Hannay while CODE Sports reports Blake Green is being courted by the Cowboys.

Danny Buderus will take on the role of assistant coach under Justin Holbrook.Source: Supplied

PANTHERS MOVE AFTER BEARS COACHING RAID

The Panthers have reportedly moved to replace outgoing assistant coach Ben Gardiner after his decision to join NRL expansion club the Perth Bears.

According to Peter Lang from the Western Weekender, Panthers NSW Cup coach Ben Harden has been promoted to serve as Ivan Cleary’s deputy. Jono Rolfe, the club’s Jersey Flegg coach, will move into the pathways system.

Gardiner announced in June he would be leaving the NRL powerhouse to join Mal Meninga’s coaching staff at the Perth Bears.

“I can’t wait to work closely with new people in Western Australia and build a hugely successful team over the next five years as we promote rugby league and grow the game,” Gardiner said at the time.