YORK KNIGHTS have confirmed that “mercurial talent” Ata Hingano has signed a new deal with the Super League newcomers.

The Tongan international is heading into his fourth full season at the club, after initially joining on loan in 2022 before signing a three-year deal.

His halfback partnership with Knights captain Liam Harris was key last season as they won the 1895 Cup and Championship Shield.

Before joining the Knights, the 28-year-old represented New Zealand Warriors and Canberra Raiders in the NRL and first moved to the UK in 2021 by signing for Salford Red Devils, then Leigh Centurions.

Hingano has also starred for the Tongan national team, making eight appearances including a 2017 World Cup semi-final outing against England.

York head coach Mark Applegarth said: “Liam Harris and Ata are an unbelievable partnership, and Ata is a mercurial talent.

“He can turn a game on its head by himself. He has such a positive impact on the group, and it’s been so pleasing to see him grow into the role he’s got now, developing on and off the field.

“I’m absolutely delighted he’s still with us.”

Hingano added: “This club has been overlooked in the past, but everyone here has believed in what we could achieve. Now we’re making history by reaching Super League.

“It feels special to be part of something that’s growing and finding its place, just like my own journey in the game.”