South Sydney have won the battle to retain in-demand utility Cody Walker.

The 26-year-old has rejected an approach from NRL rivals Brisbane to sign a two-year contract extension with the Rabbitohs, keeping him at Redfern until the end of the 2018 campaign.

After failing to make the grade at Gold Coast, Penrith and Melbourne, Walker finally broke through to make his first grade debut in Souths’ opening fixture of the year against the Sydney Roosters.

Since then Walker has made seven appearances for the Bunnies, scoring three tries and playing in a variety of positions.

“Cody has shown that hard work and persistence pays off,” Souths coach Michael Maguire said.

“We have seen him grow with his opportunities in first grade and I believe he has a lot more growth in him as he progresses in his career.”

Walker said he was thrilled to stay at the Rabbitohs, where he believes he has found a home after years of failing to establish himself elsewhere.

“I jumped at the chance to join this club a couple of years back and I’m really happy to know that I’ll get to work with the coaches and my teammates for the next few years,” he said.

“Souths and the local community have become home for me and my family and I’m glad to be staying here.”