Previously Japan-based, 27-year-old Ikenasio has also represented New Zealand in touch and tag football, before being part of their Olympic gold-medal winning sevens squad this year.

“Tysha has a wonderful story, her career being built on resilience in taking the long route to become a Black Ferns sevens player,” Warriors coach Ronald Griffiths said.

“Included in her journey has been a stint in Japan, playing rugby league in Auckland and going through the enrolment process for the New Zealand Police before her opportunity finally came to join the sevens program.

“Although she speaks with ultimate pride about her time in rugby, it has been evident in working our way through the process to sign her how committed and ready she is for the next chapter in her life."

Ikenasio's deal comes after the Warriors also signed Black Ferns rugby star Shakira Baker in September.

“I’ve been watching the NRLW from afar for years," Ikenasio said. 

"I’ve had mates who have played in it, had teammates who have made the switch to league and honestly been in awe of all the talent that has been shown.

“I feel like the NRLW is just growing each year and with the foundation that these ladies and teams have already set, it will only get bigger and better. 

"I am honoured to have signed with the Warriors and to be able to have a chance to wear the New Zealand Warriors jersey."

The Warriors also added Payton Takimoana, Kalyn Takitimu-Cook and Makayla Eli to their squad on Thursday, with all of three having a background in rugby.

Takimoana is signed on a two-year deal from the Hurricanes Poua, where she played alongside Takitimu-Cook.

Eli has also played rugby, but most recentlty represented Samoa in the 13-woman game after stints with Manly and South Sydney in the NSW Premiership.

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