Former Papua New Guinea international Jessie Joe Parker will be back with Whitehaven in 2021.

Parker has signed a one-year deal to extend his stay with the Recreation Ground club he first joined in 2012.

“I enjoy it at Whitehaven," he said. “I’m delighted to have signed again and I am looking forward to playing some rugby again.

"We are putting together a good squad for next season and it is exciting.

"I just want to get back training with the lads and hopefully get a testimonial this season.”

The 35-year-old is the latest player to sign up for head coach Gary Charlton for another tilt at the Championship and his boss said he was pleased to have the experienced centre back in the fold.

Charlton said: “Jessie is a firm fans' favourite and he has been good for Whitehaven over a number of years.

"He has plenty of experience which he brings to the squad and adds more competition for our back line.

"I’m pleased to see him sign again.”

Parker made his debut for the club in a Championship One home derby against Workington Town 36 hours after landing in the country.

He has made 186 appearances in the chocolate, blue and gold since joining, scoring 94 tries and establishing himself as a popular player among the club's supporters.

Parker has also represented Papua New Guinea on 13 occasions.

Sean Croston, Dylan Morris, Ellis Gillam, Connor Holliday, Brett Phillips, Glenn Riley, Dave Thompson, Dean Zammit, Andrew Dawson, Lachlan Walmsley, Karl Dixon, Nikau Williams, James Newton, Liam Cooper, Chris Taylor and Ryan King have also signed up for next season.

How the new campaign will look given the challenges of the coronavirus pandemic remains to be seen.