Frizell signs for the Newcastle Knights

Discussions are ongoing In the middle of the biggest financial crisis the game has ever faced with all Clubs and the NRL, introducing cost-cutting programs, with staff taking extended leave or standing down.

Amid all this uncertainty surrounding the NRL,and In a case of terrible timing, last week Dragons hard man Tyson Frizell signed for the Newcastle Knights at the end of 2020.

This new contract will not be registered at this time by the NRL due to the current circumstances with the coronavirus pandemic putting all NRL contract registrations on hold.

Frizell made the call on his future last week before the competition was suspended.

Dragons Director of rugby league pathways and list management Ian Millward said Frizell received one of the most substantial offers in St George Illawarra history to remain at the club beyond the 2020 season.

"It was a deal that reflected his contribution over the past eight years, and of course, the seasons that would have followed. We made responsible decisions when determining Tyson's value and contract extension.

"Tyson's decision to depart the Dragons at season's end will now allow the club to pursue other quality players in the marketplace "

The NRL has advised player agents and clubs that all new deals will be put on hold during the negotiations between the NRL and RLPA over salaries.

The Dragons had wanted to keep the Australian Test and Origin back-rower, upping their original three-year offer to match the Knights' deal first tabled in late January.

His expected exit is a blow for the Dragons but frees up a lot of money and lets them go to the market, and not just for a second-rower,Millward said.

With 14 Tests for Australia, another five for Wales and 11 NSW Origin appearances, Frizell ranks among the game's best forwards.

Paul McGregor's team had kicked off their campaign with back-to-back losses to Wests Tigers and Penrith before games were suspended.