The on-again-off-again relationship between prop Tim Grant and Penrith reached its endpoint on Easter Friday with the Panthers agreeing to release the NSW hopeful from the final two years of his contract so he can take up an offer to join South Sydney from 2015.
In a statement the club said Grant approached Penrith officials several weeks ago about a possible release, but after negotiations he agreed to see out his term until the end of 2016.
However, he had a change of heart and again approached the club to ask for a release, which has been formalised.
The Penrith statement continued: "The Panthers respect Tim’s decision and wish him all the best for his future."
However, he had a change of heart and again approached the club to ask for a release, which has been formalised.
The Penrith statement continued: "The Panthers respect Tim’s decision and wish him all the best for his future."
Grant said he was excited to be joining the red and green next season, but added he had unfinished business at the foot of the mountains in 2014.
“South Sydney is a great club and I’m looking forward to joining them next season,” Grant said.
“However in saying that, I still have a job to do here at Penrith for the remainder of this season, and I’ll be doing everything I can to help the Panthers have a successful year in 2014.”
Grant, 26, has played 114 NRL matches since making his debut for Penrith in 2007. He represented NSW in two State of Origin clashes in 2012, played two games for City Origin in 2011 and 2012, and played in the Prime Minister’s XIII side against Papua New Guinea in 2011.
Grant, 26, has played 114 NRL matches since making his debut for Penrith in 2007. He represented NSW in two State of Origin clashes in 2012, played two games for City Origin in 2011 and 2012, and played in the Prime Minister’s XIII side against Papua New Guinea in 2011.
Tall and powerful, Grant is seen as the perfect addition to the Souths' pack, which will be without the services of Sam Burgess from 2015.
Indeed, Souths coach Michael Maguire is looking forward to the experience and firepower he will bring to the Rabbitohs up front.
Indeed, Souths coach Michael Maguire is looking forward to the experience and firepower he will bring to the Rabbitohs up front.
“Tim has represented his state and played over 100 first grade games, so he will bring experience to our pack as well as strong defense and plenty of size,” Maguire said.
“He will add strength to our front-row rotation, and we’re looking forward to him joining our squad next pre-season.”
