NRL 2023, Lachlan Miller, Newcastle Knights, Signings analysis, 2023 recruits, Miller signing frees Ponga up for move to six

Author: Martin Lenehan NRL Senior Journalist
Timestamp: Sat 4 Feb 2023, 06:01 AM

The NRL market has been in full swing for 2023 with several stars switching clubs ahead of the new season.

NRL.com takes a look at the major transfers and how your club will benefit from a star arrival.

Lachlan Miller (Knights)

Age: 28

Position they'll fill: Fullback

Contracted until: 2025

What Miller will bring

All the qualities we saw in his seven games with the Shark in 2022 and then some.

Speed, anticipation, desire, work ethic and a nose for a try, the 28-year-old oozes class and he'll get the Knights' sets started in style with his strong carries.

Originally from Coffs Harbour, Miller should feel right at home in the surf at Merewether and the turf at McDonald Jones Stadium.

With a distinguished rugby Sevens carere behind him, Miller is well versed in the art of cover defence and the art of scrambling to shut down attacking raids, while also being solid under the high ball.

Having waited until his late 20s to get a crack in the big time, he brings a level of perspective not always evident among the brash youngsters bursting onto the NRL scene every year.

“Lachlan is a gifted athlete, with great speed and a player who will add excellent value to our squad," said Knights director of football Peter Parr.

“We have signed Lachlan predominantly to play fullback, we also believe he has the versality to play multiple positions."

Why it’ll work

Miller's arrival allows Kalyn Ponga to switch to five-eighth and that's a win-win for the Knights.

With their superstar getting his hands on the ball more often the Knights will be far more potent in attack and Miller gives them another dimension chiming in from the back.

The 28-year-old made a stunning NRL debut for the Sharks in round 11 last year, running for 294 metres and breaking nine tackles in a sure sign he could make the transition from rugby sevens to the 13-man game.

The 2020 Tokyo Olympian has speed to burn and a solid defensive game and with seven games under his belt last year he is ready to flourish as the Knights' No.1 gun.