Former Test and NSW hooker Danny Buderus will return to the NRL next season to see out his playing career with former club Newcastle.
Both Buderus and the Knights confirmed on Saturday the 33-year-old had secured a release from the final year of his contract with Super League club Leeds and would link up with incoming Newcastle coach Wayne Bennett on a one-year deal.
Buderus made the announcement after helping the Rhinos to a 26-24 victory over Warrington to book a berth in next weekend's grand final, ensuring his Super League career will end in style.
"It's been going on for a while behind closed doors and I've got to give thanks to the Rhinos for their patience and for allowing me to finish off my career at my hometown club," said Buderus, in his third season at the club.
"They've wished me well which is great.
"To go home with an appearance (in the grand final) at Old Trafford is a dream script.
"But we want to go there and win it.
"We've got some momentum and that makes us a dangerous team.
"I've enjoyed everything about the Rhinos and my English experience and to finish on this note will put me in good stead for the next couple of years of my career."
Leeds will face either St Helens or Wigan in the competition decider.
Buderus played 221 first grade games for the Knights and was part of their premiership-winning side in 2001.
Knights chief executive Matt Gidley said the club was delighted to welcome back one of its favourite sons.
"It is fantastic news that Danny will play his final year with the Newcastle Knights," said Gidley, a former team-mate of Buderus.
"I'm sure every Knights member and fan, and even supporters of other NRL clubs, will be happy to hear we have been able to work through this with Leeds and bring him home.
"Danny was always a popular member of the team, not just for his on-field brilliance but for the person he is off the field."
AAP
Tags: sport, nrl, rugby-league, newcastle-2300, nsw, australia First posted October 01, 2011 09:09:02
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