The Newcastle Knights have moved swiftly to strengthen their NRLW squad for the 2026 campaign, announcing the signing of two seasoned and versatile outside backs. The club confirmed on Wednesday, December 3, 2025, that Nakia Davis-Welsh and Cheyelle Robins-Reti will join the roster, bringing a wealth of experience and representative honours to the Hunter.
Homecoming for a Jillaroo
The signing of Nakia Davis-Welsh marks a return to familiar territory for the 29-year-old utility back. A product of Kempsey, Davis-Welsh attended Hunter Sports High during her teenage years and even played for Newcastle before the official inception of the NRLW competition.
Her footballing credentials are impressive. She was a member of the Jillaroos' 2017 World Cup-winning squad and has also proudly represented both New South Wales in State of Origin and the Indigenous All Stars, earning her first All Stars call-up at just 16 years of age.
Davis-Welsh, whose father is former Balmain Tigers player Paul Davis, joins the Knights on a one-year deal after spending the previous two seasons with the Cronulla-Sutherland Sharks. During the 2025 NRLW season, she made eight appearances off the bench for the Sharks, scoring one try and breaking nine tackles.
A Dual-Code International from New Zealand
The Knights' second major acquisition is New Zealand dual-international Cheyelle Robins-Reti. The 28-year-old arrives in Newcastle from the Canberra Raiders, bringing with her 28 NRLW appearances since her debut in 2023.
Robins-Reti's athletic prowess is demonstrated by her having represented New Zealand in both rugby league and rugby union at the highest level. The Knights have secured her services on a more extended two-year contract, signalling her as a key part of their future plans.
Coach's Vision for the New Recruits
Knights NRLW head coach Ben Jeffries expressed his enthusiasm for the new signings, highlighting the specific qualities each player will bring to the squad.
Regarding Davis-Welsh, Jeffries said, "Nakia is a highly decorated representative player who has invaluable All Stars, NSW Origin and Jillaroos experience. We are looking forward to her guidance and competitive influence to help the next wave of female players progress." He added that having coached her previously, he has firsthand knowledge of her team-first attitude and versatility.
On the addition of Robins-Reti, Jeffries noted her existing connections within the squad. "Having been a teammate with several of our players before, we expect her transition to be smooth and her impact significant," he stated. "With speed and power, and the ability to play any position in the backline, Chey will fast become a vital member to our squad."
Rebuilding After Key Departures
The signings come at a crucial time for the Knights, who are navigating the loss of some major talent. The club has recently seen star halfback Jesse Southwell depart for the Brisbane Broncos. Furthermore, dominant winger Sheridan Gallagher, the club's leading try-scorer over the past three seasons, has also moved on.
The acquisition of Davis-Welsh and Robins-Reti represents a strategic effort to offset these losses by injecting proven, experienced campaigners into the backline. Their signing underscores the Knights' commitment to remaining competitive in the NRLW as they build towards the 2026 season.
