The rebuilding of the Warriors pack has begun with the signing of powerhouse Tonga prop Ben Murdoch-Masila on a three-season NRL deal beginning next year.

The front-rower has agreed to finish a five-year stint in Super League and return to the NRL in Auckland, where he was born and raised.

Several Warriors forwards come off contract at the end of this year and the giant frame of Murdoch-Masila will be a welcome addition, according to recruitment manager Peter O’Sullivan.

“Ben is right up among the best forwards in the game right now and he had plenty of clubs trying to sign him,” O’Sullivan said.

“It’s a huge signing for us, one we couldn’t be happier with. Ben always had enormous potential and has now matured into a total professional.”

The 29-year-old played 52 games across four seasons with the Wests Tigers before a short stint at Penrith before his departure for England.

He played for Salford and has begun his third and final season with Warrington, who he has helped take to the last two Challenge Cup finals.

They were victorious over St Helens in the decider last September.

Murdoch-Masila was a handful during Tonga’s historic 16-12 win over Australia in Auckland last year.