Manly have been given a huge boost the day before the November 1st open market period, with reliable hooker Lachlan Croker signing a two-year extension with the club.
The 26-year-old has become one of the Sea Eagles' most consistent players in recent seasons, taking out the Best and Fairest Award in 2022 and playing over 100 games in the maroon jumper.
Croker was set to come off-contract at the end of next year, but his new agreement will see the Goulburn product remain on the Northern Beaches until at least the end of 2026.
The dummy-half is expected to share the duties with young gun Gordon Chan Kum Tong next season, with the Samoan international tipped to come off the bench for Manly.
MORE: Zac Lomax reveals fresh mentality for struggling Dragons
Manly hooker Lachlan Croker signs two-year contract extension
In a statement released on Tuesday, head coach Anthony Seibold praised the decision and believes Croker will remain an integral part of the club's success in the years to come.
“Lachlan has been one of our most consistent players over the last two seasons," he said.
"It's great for us to be able to extend him out for a further two years. He has played over 100 games for our club now and is a great team man... you know what you are going to get with 'Crokes'.
"Lachlan is just a fantastic advertisement for our club with regards to how he carries himself on and off the field. We are really excited about extending his contract.”
Croker joins the likes of Reuben Garrick, Jason Saab and the Trbojevic brothers in committing to Manly long-term.
Lachlan Croker 2023 NRL stats
| Games | 23 |
| Tries | 6 |
| Try Assists | 4 |
| Linebreak Assists | 5 |
| Offloads | 15 |
| Avg. Run Metres | 27m |
| Avg. Kick Metres | 41m |
| Forced Dropouts | 2 |
| Avg. Tackles | 37 |
| Tackle Efficiency | 93% |