Jai Field, one half of Wigan's show-stopping Australian double act, has committed to Britain's top rugby league team, signing a new deal to the end of the 2027 season.
It ends speculation in the UK that the former Parramatta Eels and St George Illawarra flyer could return to the NRL, after gaining new suitors during his dazzling spell at the Super League champions.
Instead, the 26-year-old fullback is ready to reignite his partnership with fellow former Eel Bevan French, voted last season's Man of Steel as the best player in the British game, with Wigan seeking to become world champions against NRL kings Penrith in February's World Club Challenge.
Since arriving at Wigan in 2021, Field has been, arguably, the most exhilarating figure to watch in the Super League with his remarkable speed, defensive steel and all-round excellence, having scored 43 tries in 59 appearances.
Kris Radlinski, chief executive of England's most successful club, called him "one of my favourite players to watch", as Wigan announced Field would be staying for the next four years.
"I very often remind Matt Peet (Wigan's coach) that we cannot take Jai's excellence for granted,'' Radlinski said.
"His skill level, speed, fitness and all-round ability are seriously impressive.
"I would say to Wigan fans to enjoy and cherish his ability, as players like Jai do not come around very often.
"It’s crucial to acknowledge the dedication these players demonstrate to our club, often leaving behind family and friends on the other side of the world.
"Let’s ensure that we express our love and appreciation for them wholeheartedly.”
Peet added: "Our fans love him and rightly so, he is exciting to watch and one of those players that will inspire future generations of rugby league players."
Field, who has talked of wanting to challenge himself again in the NRL one day, was delighted with the new deal.
"I’m really pleased to be extending my stay here at Wigan,'' he said.
"I’m very grateful that the club and the fans have shown so much faith in me over the past few seasons - it really did make it an easy decision to extend.''
Field and French have proved a dazzling combination, with Wigan believing they are the X-factor pairing who could earn the Warriors their fifth World Club Challenge triumph, which would put them level with the Sydney Roosters' record tally.
The Panthers are itching to win on British soil on February 24 at Wigan's DW Stadium after their shock loss at home to St Helens last year.
The teams met in the same competition in 1991 at Liverpool's Anfield stadium, where Wigan won 21-4.
