The Toyota Forklifts Canberra Raiders have extended halfback Ethan Sanders for a further season, keeping him at the club until the end of 2028.
Sanders arrived at Canberra in 2025, making his club debut in round 13 against the Roosters, leading the Raiders to a memorable 26-24 comeback win.
Fast-forward to 2026, Sanders was awarded the NRL Rookie of the Year after his first full season in Green.
Building a formidable combination with Ethan Strange, the pair look to rise to new heights in 2027 and beyond.
Sanders said it was an easy decision to re-sign with the club who put a lot of belief in him after a brilliant rookie season.
"Two years ago, the club put a lot of faith in me to bring me down to Canberra. I can't thank Ricky enough for all the belief he's given me, and I just want to repay that now," Sanders said.
Sanders claimed he was surprised to win the NRL Rookie of the Year but is grateful for his teammates who helped guide him through his debut season.
"I was honestly just happy to be at the Dally M's and rub shoulders with some of the best in the game. To win the Rookie of the Year was a huge surprise but it's a testament to the players I have around me," Sanders said.
NRL Recruitment Manager Chris Hutchison was excited to lock down the halfback for the next two years after an excellent rookie season at the club.
“Ethan had a great 2026 season, and we were impressed with the way he was able to lead the team to some memorable wins,” Hutchison said,
Ethan has shown strong maturity since arriving in 2025 and brought a level of calmness and professionalism to the Raiders.”
Hutchison highlighted Sanders’ kicking game which will only flourish over his future at the club.
“Ethan’s long range kicking ability is a real highlight of his game and he was able to put us in some great positions on the field,” Hutchison added.
