A Brisbane Broncos prodigy already labelled ‘Benji 2.0’ has landed a new deal with the club, as he moves one step closer to his NRL debut.
One of the top rugby league talents under 18, Calvin Harris-Tavita has inked an upgraded contract with the Broncos, keeping him at Red Hill until at least the end of 2028.
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The younger brother of Warriors star Chanel Harris-Tavita, Calvin has had a standout 12 months, claiming the 2026 Peter Sterling Medal and drawing comparisons to NRL Hall of Famer Benji Marshall for his explosiveness and stepping ability in attack.
Primarily a five-eighth, the Wavell State High School product can also play fullback and will be eligible for NRL selection when he turns 18 in March of next year.
The deal is understood to also see him train full-time with the NRL squad as he learns from the likes of Adam Reynolds (moved into a specialist halves coaching role), Ezra Mam and Ben Hunt.
“We’ve recently upgraded Calvin’s contract to recognise and reward his hard work and progress through our program,” Broncos Academy boss Simon Scanlan told CODE Sports.
“He’s made some positive strides in his development, and we’ve been really pleased with his attitude and commitment.
“He’ll move into full-time training with our NRL squad after Christmas which is an exciting next step for him.”
AGENT FEUD EMERGES… FROM THE SAME COMPANY
Sam Ayoub, who runs Ultra Management, has reportedly filed a complaint to NRL player agent accreditation boss Paul Massey against Nal Wijesekera.
According to Code Sports, Wijesekera works for Ayoub’s management company a currently has several rising stars on his books, including Cowboys gun Jaxon Purdue.
The experienced Ayoub reportedly raised concerns regarding Wijesekera’s conduct, hoping his employee doesn’t shine a bad light on his player agency business.
Wijesekera reportedly told News Corp his relationship with Ayoub was “fine”, while he declined to explain the specific issues that led to the complaint.
Ayoub has been an NRL agent for around 30 years and currently manages the likes of Hudson Young, Steven Crichton, Brian To’o and the legendary Johnathan Thurston.
MANLY LOCK UP TALENTED BROTHERS
The Manly Sea Eagles have locked up the services of talented brother Ashton and Onitoni Large through to the end of 2029 as they prepare for the future.
Initially off-contract at the end of 2027 which would have seen them hit the open market, the brothers instead decided to re-sign for another two years.
Regarded as two of the best young spine players in rugby league, they were both part of this year’s Under-19s NSW Blues squad and Onitoni went on to make his first grade debut in Round 26.
“Both young men are fine people. They’re humble, they’re talented and they work extremely hard,” Sea Eagles coach Kieran Foran said.
“They are very well-liked by their teammates and very well respected within the Club.
“The boys have their sights set on one day playing alongside each other in first grade here at Manly, and that would be wonderful to see.”
DOLPHINS SIGN NEW OUTSIDE BACK
The Dolphins have confirmed the signing of a new outside back for next season following the departure of Jamayne Isaako and Jake Averillo.
After two seasons with the Canberra Raiders, where he made his NRL debut and played 38 more NSW Cup games, Kain Anderson will join the Dolphins on a two-year deal through to the end of 2028.
The brother of fellow NRL player Grant Anderson, Kain’s switch to Queensland will likely see him predominantly used as a back-up option in the outside backs with Tevita Naufahu expected to make the jump into the starting line-up for first grade.
“Kain has worked hard for this opportunity at NRL level and has shown through his performances in NSW Cup that he has plenty to offer,” Dolphins CEO Terry Reader said.
“He is a strong outside back who we believe can continue to develop in our system so we are excited to have him joining out Top 30 squad from 2027.
“Kain has already had a taste of NRL football and we’re looking forward to seeing him take the next step in his career here with the Dolphins.”
Kain Anderson. Picture: NRL PhotosSource: Supplied