Hooker Hodgson pledges long-term future to Canberra Raiders

The 28-year-old, who has helped Wayne Bennett’s side reach the World Cup semi-finals, was entering the final year of his contract after joining Canberra from Hull KR at the end of the 2014 season.

“Canberra’s been a home away from home for us and I know my wife Kirby and I have really enjoyed our time here and want this to be our home for the next few years as we raise our family,” Hodgson said.

“The club was fantastic in helping us make the transition from England to Australia and so far we’ve been able to make some wonderful friends and settle into the community.

“The players were fantastic from the moment we arrived and the current group is a wonderful bunch of blokes who I believe have their best footy ahead of them.”

Hodgson, who made his Super League debut for Hull in 2009, has become a key player in a Canberra side that also features England team-mate Elliott Whitehead.

Canberra chief executive Don Furner added: “It’s the longest contract we’ve done for some time and it reflects our faith that we have in Josh of being a leader of this group and how committed to the Raiders he is.

“From a football perspective Josh brings experience, leadership and professionalism to the team and he’s demonstrated how valuable he is to our club.”