Huge blow for Panthers as top prop signs with rival

James Fisher-Harris will leave the Panthers at the end of the year, signing a long-term deal with the New Zealand Warriors.

The three-time premiership winner was granted a release by Penrith on compassionate grounds from the final two years of his deal.

Fisher-Harris has been a mainstay for the Panthers since making his debut for the club in 2016, going on to play 183 first grade matches, including all three grand final wins.

The 28-year-old leaves with the blessing of the Penrith organisation, who were sympathetic to his family’s decision to move back home to New Zealand.

James Fisher-Harris will leave the Panthers at the end of 2024.

“Fish has been exceptional for the Panthers, both on and off the field,” Panthers coach Ivan Cleary said in a statement.

“The leadership and cultural impact he has displayed since coming into first grade has been outstanding. He’s evolved into one of the game’s elite players, and coaching him has been a pleasure.

“While we would have loved him to stay at the Panthers, we wish him, his partner Natalie, and children Tahira and Deon all the best for their next chapter.”

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Fisher-Harris took over the Kiwis captaincy last year, leading the side to a shock Pacific Championships win over the Kangaroos and capturing the Golden Boot award in the process, but will now become a Warrior for the first time.

Warriors coach Andrew Webster lauded the signing and believes he will be the perfect addition to the club’s forward pack, especially in the wake of Addin Fonua-Blake’s decision to return home to Sydney next year and link up with the Sharks.

Addin Fonua-Blake will leave the Warriors at the end of the year.

“He’s one of the game’s elite players, a super tough forward who sets and demands the highest standards,” the coach said.

“I loved working with him at the Panthers and we really look forward to bringing him into our system from next season. He’ll add terrific value to our roster, to the club overall and he’ll also be invaluable as a mentor for our young players coming through.

“It’s going to be fantastic having James with us.”

Fisher-Harris was contracted with the Panthers until the end of 2026 prior to his release, but will see out the remainder of this year as the side searches for a fourth-straight title.