Mason makes Knights move

Controversial Australian forward Willie Mason is back in rugby league after returning to the NRL with home-town club Newcastle Knights.

Mason joined Hull KR on a three-year deal last season but made only six appearances after running into visa trouble and went on to switch codes with French rugby union club Toulon.

He played for the Barbarians at Twickenham but struggled to make an impact in France, appearing in two friendlies and just one Top 14 game for his new club.

Mason, 32, returned to Australia hoping to revive his NRL career and Knights coach Wayne Bennett has threwn him a lifeline with an incentive-based contract for the remainder of the season.

"I am grateful that Wayne and the club have shown confidence in me and I will not be wasting the opportunity to not only perform on the field but to contribute to the Knights' strong community programmes," he said.

"I am aware that I still have plenty of hard work ahead of me to earn a spot in the NRL team but it is great to be home and playing in front of my family, friends and the Newcastle community."

The former Canterbury Bulldogs, Sydney Roosters and North Queensland forward made 24 Test appearances and played in 13 State of Origin matches for New South Wales.

Knights chief executive Matt Gidley added: "We are pleased to be able to offer Willie an opportunity to re-establish his rugby league career back in his home town.

"Willie's experience and physical traits will bring confidence to our current squad, particularly our emerging players for which we have very high hopes."