NRL: Henderson says 'au revoir' to Warriors

Ian Henderson. Photo / Brett Phibbs

Hooker Ian Henderson is to cut short his contract with the Warriors to join Les Catalans in the British Super League.

The Warriors last night announced it was releasing Henderson from the final year of his contract so he could accept a three-year deal with the French club.

Henderson, 27, who has played 73 NRL matches, was due to end his Warriors contract at the end of next year's NRL season.

"Ian was keen to secure his long-term future but we weren't able to extend his contract beyond 2011 at this stage," Warriors chief executive Wayne Scurrah said.

"A number of opportunities have since arisen and, while Ian was reluctant to leave the Warriors, he has requested a release to return to the Super League."

Henderson has made 65 appearances for the Warriors since joining the club from the Bradford Bulls in 2008. Henderson said his future was critical in making his decision.

"It's disappointing to be leaving because I love this place, but I wanted a long-term contract and Les Catalans are able to offer me that security," he said.

Warriors coach Ivan Cleary said Henderson had provided real value to the squad.

"He's a durable and aggressive player who has given us a real edge in the middle of the park. He still has a lot more to offer us before the season ends and I know he wants to give us as much as he possibly can."

Brisbane captain Darren Lockyer is set to step up his bid to return from injury against the Warriors on Friday with his team's NRL finals prospects on a knife edge.

Lockyer popped a rib cartilage 17 days ago. They have lost the past two matches to Parramatta and Newcastle and desperately need to win one, if not both, of their remaining two games, against the Warriors and late-charging Canberra at home the next weekend.

There have been conflicting reports about the severity of Lockyer's injury and whether he'll be able to get back on the field before the finals, if at all.

Medical opinion is that rib cartilage injuries require between four and six weeks to scar over and heal and there are risks associated with playing before they are fully recovered.

If Lockyer plays it will be with a protective vest, extensive strapping and possibly painkillers. The Broncos are due to make a final decision after training at Auckland Grammar on Thursday.

Gold Coast regained second spot on the NRL ladder late last night with a 23-14 win over hosts Sydney Roosters.

It was the fifth straight win for the Titans and equalled the club record.

While the Titans are now guaranteed to host a final at Skilled Park, the Roosters' third defeat in a row put a huge dent in their hopes of securing a home playoff.

But they did have a high point: Anthony Minichiello scored his 100th try for the club. He is fast chasing down Bill Mullen's record tally of 104.

- AAP