NRL: Brown to leave Warriors for Panthers

Lewis Brown. Photo / Greg Bowker

Warriors utility Lewis Brown will leave the club at the end of the season to join the Penrith Panthers and reunite with former coach Ivan Cleary.

The club made the announcement today after the two parties were unable to agree terms for a new contract.

Brown, who is off contract at the end of the 2012 campaign, and the club have accepted he will continue his NRL career on a three-year contract with Penrith from 2013.

The Christchurch-born 25-year-old Kiwi international said his decision to leave the club wasn't straightforward.

"It will be tough leaving. The Vodafone Warriors gave me my break to play in the NRL and also the chance to represent the Kiwis," he said.

"I love the club but I had to look after my career and I thought the best option for my future was to accept the contract at Penrith.

"My heart's still at the Vodafone Warriors. We're only just into the 2012 season and they'll have my full commitment for the rest of the year.

"I want to thank the club for the opportunity they've given me over the last four years."
Vodafone Warriors chief executive Wayne Scurrah said Brown has made a real mark at the club.

"I'll always remember our first meeting with him in Sydney and the impression he left," he said.

"He had so much enthusiasm and he brought that to the Vodafone Warriors. He has made a great contribution to the club, becoming a first-grade regular in his first season in 2009 and going on to play for the Kiwis as well."

Brown became Warrior No 151 when he made his debut against St George Illawarra in Wollongong in May, 2009. He'll make his 65th NRL appearance against the Sydney Roosters on Saturday night. Used as a back rower, centre and hooker, he has scored 15 tries so far.

He was first selected for the Kiwis for their 2010 Four Nations campaign but had to wait until the Anzac Test last May to make his debut, going on to play in each of the Kiwis' five Tests last year.

- HERALD ONLINE