The Penrith Panthers have today confirmed the signing of Brydens Lawyers NSW Blues playmaker James Maloney until at least the end of the 2020 season.
The 31-year-old has achieved 203 NRL appearances along with nine State of Origin games for NSW and four Tests for the Kangaroos.
“Panthers has the roster and the resources to achieve success over the coming years and I’m really excited to now be part of that,” Maloney said.
“The squad has a strong forward pack for me to play behind, plus some young and talented players coming through in the outside backs.”
After making his NRL debut for Melbourne in 2009, Maloney joined New Zealand Warriors and led them to the NRL Grand Final in 2011.
It was during his stint in Auckland that Maloney first met current Panthers halfback Nathan Cleary.
“I’ve actually known Nathan for a long time because he was my ballboy at the Warriors,” Maloney said.
“I’m looking forward to playing alongside him and hopefully helping him take his game to the next level.”
Success followed Maloney to Sydney Roosters, where he won the premiership in 2013, and three years later he guided Cronulla Sharks to the club’s first-ever premiership title.
“James Maloney is an exciting acquisition for Panthers,” Panthers Executive General Manager Phil Gould AM said.
“He has regularly succeeded at the highest levels of our game and brings a wealth of experience.
“It’s a real vote of confidence in the potential of our club that James has chosen to play with Panthers.
“We are truly delighted to welcome him to Penrith.”
Maloney will commence pre-season training with Panthers in January.
