The powerful Kiwi international and 2009 Dally M Winger of the Year has agreed to a new deal with the Wests Tigers.

Tuiaki has not played this season after suffering a badly broken ankle injury in round 24 against Parramatta at the Sydney Football Stadium last year. The extent of the injury threatened to end his career.

“The injury happened a year ago tomorrow and it was a significant one,’’ said Wests Tigers CEO Stephen Humphreys.

“It has been a long road back for Taniela but he has worked extremely hard and we have been tireless in our support of his rehabilitation.

“Taniela is one of the most popular players at our club and whilst there is still some risk around him regaining peak fitness, we strongly believe it is the right decision to support him and provide him with this opportunity.”

Tuiaki said he was looking forward to the challenge ahead.

“I love the Wests Tigers and the support this club has given me, from players, officials and staff, has been terrific,’’ he said.

“I will continue to work hard on my rehab with the aim being to regain my position in the NRL team. I really want to thank the Wests Tigers for their belief in me and I will do my best to re-pay them.”