Recruit Watch: Ben Murdoch-Masila

The NRL market has been in full swing for 2023 with several stars switching clubs ahead of the new season.

NRL.com takes a look at the major transfers and how your club will benefit from a star arrival.

Ben Murdoch-Masila (Dragons)

• Age: 31
• Position they'll fill: Prop
• Contracted until: 2024

What Murdoch-Masila can bring

The vastly experienced big man played for Tonga at the World Cup and has been part of finals campaigns in the NRL and Super League.

Whether starting or coming from the bench, Murdoch-Masila carries the ball with purpose and possesses a handy offload.

Powered his way to 37 tries in 119 appearances with Salford and Warrington between 2016-20 before returning to the NRL with the Warriors in 2021 and bagging six tries in 16 games.

Always a handful for defenders, Murdoch-Masila brings aggression and smarts to a forward pack that simply must get on top of its rivals more regularly in 2023 if the Dragons are to return to finals footy.

Why it’ll work

Murdoch-Masila offers a point of difference in attack and will be a good foil for Blake Lawrie, Zane Musgrove and Jack de Belin.

“He’s crafty, the big fella,” Lawrie said. “He brings that X-Factor with an offload and second-phase footy.

“He can break the line from 30 metres out and score a try.”

Having been part of successful teams in the UK and Australia, the 31-year-old knows what it takes to get to the finals and how to win once you’re there.

Murdoch-Masila debuted back in 2010 with Wests Tigers and is still pushing off the back fence with plenty of intent, ensuring he quickly becomes a fan favourite among the Red V army.