The New Zealand Warriors have granted a release request by Jamayne Taunoa-Brown to allow him to sign with the North Queensland Cowboys.

The 24-year-old Taunoa Brown joined the Warriors on a train-and-trial contract in 2020 before being signed full-time.

Taunoa-Brown has also represented the Indigenous All-Stars side.

After the Warriors were unable to offer him a spot for 2022, they granted Taunoa-Brown a release.

“Jamayne has asked for a release from his current contract and it has been granted,” said Vodafone Warriors recruitment manager Peter O’Sullivan.

“Unfortunately we were unable to offer him a contract beyond 2022 so, with his best interests in mind, we’ve reluctantly agreed to let him go so he can accept a long-term offer for his future and security.”

Taunoa-Brown played a total of 32 NRL games, with two of those coming on loan at the St George Illawarra Dragons.

Cowboys coach Todd Payten knows Taunoa-Brown well having coached him during his time at the Warriors.

“Jamayne’s a big body, who moves well and can play big minutes,” Payten said.

“He’s got soft hands, light feet and he’s technically sound defensively.”

Payten also praised Taunoa-Brown’s work ethic and looks forward to having him at the Cowboys.

“He’s a quiet kid who took an opportunity on a train and trial at the Warriors, worked his tail off, and earned his way into an NRL system through the backdoor after not being signed out of under 20s,” Payten continued.

“I am really excited to have him join us at the Cowboys and I envisage him playing an important role for us over the next two seasons.”

Jamayne Taunoa-Brown during his loan stint at the St George Illawarra Dragons

By ricky

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