Cherry-Evans confirms NRL exit with title dream looming
Scott Bailey and George Clarke |
Daly Cherry-Evans has given himself every chance to book-end his NRL career with a second premiership, after confirming 2026 will be his last in Australia.
The Sydney Roosters star announced on Friday he would finish in the NRL at season’s end, before moving to the English Super League for a one-year swansong at Hull FC.
His exit will bring the curtain down on one of the NRL’s most storied careers, after debuting at Manly in 2011 before his shock Sea Eagles exit at the end of last season.
At the age of 37, Cherry-Evans is the second-most capped player in NRL history, and has a string of records including the most 40-20s ever kicked, most golden-point winners and most field goals in the NRL era.
He also captained both Queensland and Australia, helping lead the Maroons to three series wins and also claiming a Clive Churchill Medal in 2013.
His announcement comes despite him showing on Thursday night he is still playing as well as ever, scoring both the Roosters’ tries in their 12-6 win over Penrith.
After beginning his career with a premiership as a rookie halfback at Manly in 2011, Cherry-Evans now has the Roosters in first with a second title looking a real possibility.
“I still have a real desire to play and compete, so the opportunity to join Hull FC and experience the Super League is something I’m genuinely excited about,” Cherry-Evans said.
“But there’s still plenty of football to be played this season and that’s where my focus is.
“We’ve got a lot we still want to achieve as a team here at the Roosters, and I’m determined to give my all and play my part in that.”
Rumours of Cherry-Evans Super League move had come as something of a shock earlier this week.
Hull will be coached next season by Steve McNamara, who is a long-time friend and former assistant to Roosters’ coach Trent Robinson.
The former Queensland halfback shocked Manly last March when he announced he would leave the club, after 15 seasons there.
He insisted on Friday he had no ill feeling towards the Sea Eagles, where he remains the most-capped player in the club’s history.
“Manly will always hold a special place for me and my family,” he said.
“I spent more than 15 years there, made lifelong friendships and was fortunate to experience so much throughout my time at the club.
“Coming to the Roosters this year gave me the opportunity to challenge myself in a completely new environment and I’ve loved being part of this club.”
Cherry-Evans’ Roosters arrival meant has prompted the Tri-colours to deploy promising playmaker Hugo Savala in the centres this season.
Robinson described coaching Cherry-Evans as a “gift” after his side climbed to first and moved to within touching distance of the minor premiership.
“You talk about external motivation, but to watch someone care about the way that he plays the game and goes about it,” Robinson said.
“Maybe two or three years ago at a charity function, I almost bought his boot for a couple of thousand dollars but one of my mates got it before me.
“I feel like a guy plays with a spirit… I really enjoy watching him play and I’ve said that but I’ve enjoyed watching him come and want to improve his game.”
AAP