Wests Tigers recruit outside-back from rugby union

Wests Tigers interim coach Brett Kimmorley is delighted to see Triston Reilly return to rugby league after spending a couple of seasons in rugby union.

Reilly, 23, has made a return to the 13-aside code after being in the 15-aside game for a couple of years with the NSW Waratahs and Randwick.

The outside-back came through the system at NRL side Newcastle Knights before moving to rugby union, where he represented Australia in Rugby Sevens.

Reilly joins the Tigers on a train and trial deal for the rest of this season before moving into the club’s 30-man squad in 2023 and 2024.

Reilly said: “I’m really happy to be back in rugby league. I did enjoy my time in union but it’s great to be back.

“I’ve only been here a day or two but there is a really good feel about the place.

“Everyone has made me feel so welcome. Now I plan to knuckle down and do my very best.”

Kimmorley said: “He’s been away from our game for a little while but looked sharp in training. Although joining us from rugby union, he has a very strong league background.

“I think it’s fantastic that Triston has decided to return to rugby league and link up with us here at the Wests Tigers.”

Tigers chief executive Justin Pascoe said: “We look forward to seeing Triston develop as a player over the next few years.

“It’s great to have him back in rugby league and joining us through an exciting phase for the club.”

Wests are currently 13th in the NRL ladder, having won three from 13 games so far in 2022.

Kimmorley has taken the head coaching reins on an interim basis following the club’s sacking of Michael Maguire earlier this month.

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