Parramatta have signed Rachael Pearson on a three-year deal, hoping the incumbent NSW Blues playmaker will take the Eels' NRLW side back to the grand final in 2023.
Pearson is the Eels' second official signing for the upcoming season after middle forward Kennedy Cherrington agreed to a three-year contract of her own earlier this week.
The deals come after the NRL and Rugby League Players' Association approved multi-year contracts for NRLW players as part of their in-principle collective bargaining agreement.
Pearson is the latest player confirmed to be leaving St George Illawarra this season after Kezie Apps, Taliah Fuimaono, Monalisa Soliola and Shaylee Bent also signed with rivals.
More are expected to follow the players out of the joint venture before the contract window closes on May 24.
Pearson, 29, made her State of Origin debut at halfback last year and was a member of the Dragons side that lost the 2021 NRLW grand final.
Her signing is a significant one for an Eels outfit looking to improve on last year's grand-final loss under coach Dean Widders.
"This is a new and exciting chapter for me," Pearson said.
"I'm really keen to be part of the Parramatta Eels for the next three years.
"I've always admired their coaching staff and I can't wait to continue my rugby league career with this club.
"I really want to take this opportunity to help mentor younger players in our team, I know the Eels have a healthy pathways system which will produce a lot of young talent over the next few years."
Pearson's signing comes after the Eels lost rugby sevens convert Gayle Broughton (Brisbane), captain Simaima Taufa and Ash Quinlan (Canberra) after the contract window opened last week.
