Penrith Panthers lock Trent Merrin has announced that he has re-signed with the club until the end of the 2020 NRL season.
The contract is a two-year extension on his current deal, which was due to expire at the end of 2018.
Merrin is only in his first season with the Panthers after being signed from the St George Illawarra Dragons on a three-year deal coming into the 2016 season.
Merrin was overlooked for the New South Wales Blues in State of Origin this year but he has represented the state 13 times while also representing Australia once in what is a high-quality list of accomplishments, which also includes a premiership with the Dragons in 2010.
He played his 150th career game during Round 20, featuring heavily against the Brisbane Broncos and so far this season has averaged over 150 metres and 30 tackles per game.
“I am honoured and privileged to extend my stay at such a prestigious club,” Merrin said.
“From just my short time being at the Panthers I know this is a club heading in the right direction. I consider myself extremely fortunate to be able to stay on this journey for another two years and witness the growth of the many talented young players coming through.”
Panthers Executive General Manager Phil Gould was full of praise for their 2016 acquisition, with the lock playing a massive role in the side.
“Trent has been a wonderful acquisition for the Panthers this season,” Phil Gould said.
“Trent’s original deal included an option in his favour for the 2018 season but we are delighted to know he will now be with us until at least the end of 2020. His contributions to this club, both on and off the field, have been outstanding.
“The fact that Trent has agreed to this early extension of his deal is a real vote of confidence in the potential he sees in our club.”
The 26-year-old will have a massive job to do if the Panthers, who currently sitting in eighth spot, are to make the finals with the club travelling to face the New Zealand Warriors in Round 21.
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