Rugby League: Former Kiwis prop Quentin Pongia seriously ill

Former Kiwis captain Quentin Pongia is continuing his recovery after undergoing bowel surgery last November. Photo / Photosport.

The Warriors have joined rival NRL clubs Manly and Canberra in a fundraising effort to support former Kiwis captain Quentin Pongia as he continues his battle with cancer.

The former New Zealand test front-rower has been unable to return to work while he continues his recovery after undergoing surgery last November to remove a bowel tumour.

The Warriors have donated a signed 2019 25th season jersey and a corporate match day package for their opening round NRL match against the Bulldogs on March 16, to an auction established by the Raiders and Sea Eagles to help support Pongia and his family.

Fans can bid on those items and other club's jerseys and corporate packages are also up for grabs on allbids.com.au until February 27.

Following his operation last year, the 48-year-old told nine.com.au: "I'm on the mend now and pray I can overcome this moving forward."

Kiwis teammates Ruben Wiki and Quentin Pongia celebrate a win over Australia at North Harbour Stadium in 1998. Photo / Photosport.

Originally from the West Coast, Pongia played 137 NRL games and 35 tests for the Kiwis during a 13-year career in which he carved out a reputation as one of the game's most feared players.

His uncompromising style of play saw him make an immediate impression when he arrived in the NRL after joining the star-studded Canberra side in 1993.

The Raiders have been quick to support Pongia who played in the club's 1994 premiership winning side before stints with the Warriors, Roosters, Dragons and English glamour club Wigan.

Pongia returned home to New Zealand to join the Warriors in 1998, playing 18 matches before leaving to join the Tri-Colours the following season.

Manly have also stepped up to help with Pongia becoming a popular member of the Sea Eagles' off-field staff since accepting a role as the club's Wellbeing Officer in 2017.