Ben Hunt has admitted that he has some regrets about signing an extension with the Dragons this time last year, though the star halfback said that he was not being held hostage by the club.
He extended his deal until the end of 2025, but was close to former coach Anthony Griffin and, when he was sacked midway through this season, Hunt asked for a release.
Now, in an interview with the Daily Telegraph, he has opened up on the contract drama that has engulfed him over the latter half of 2023, putting paid to any rumours ahead of Shane Flanagan’s arrival for 2024.
“I’ll be at the Dragons,” he confirmed. “I’ve had a number of meetings with Flanno now. That’s where I’m going to be.
“I wouldn’t say I’m being held hostage. That’s a bit harsh. I have had to accept it in a way. I am going to be there.”
Asked if he regretted signing the extension, Hunt said: “Yes in a way I do but also there is a part of me that doesn’t.
“As a rugby league player you like the security. You have to only look recently with guys like Ryan Papenhuyzen. The game can spit you out really quick. There is a part of me that doesn’t but there is a part that does.”
Canterbury have announced that they will apply for an NRLW license – despite expansion not yet being confirmed by the NRL.
The Bulldogs, who run teams at every level below NRLW, will seek to become the 11th team into the professional competition and would run the team out of their historic home at Belmore Sports Ground.
“The Bulldogs are proud to submit our application in pursuit of an NRLW entry,” said CEO Aaron Warburton.
“Our commitment to the advancement of women’s rugby league is unwavering and our application reflects our dedication to creating a sustainable and successful NRLW team.
There is no confirmation yet that any expansion is on the horizon for the NRLW, though it is likely to be discussed at a high level.
The Dogs could immediately lay claim to some impressive talent: their Harvey Norman Women’s Premiership side, the tier below NRLW, made this year’s Grand Final with a team that included stars Kennedy Cherrington, Gayle Broughton, Tayla Preston and Reuben Cherrington.
Two fan favourite big men might be about to swap places, with the Manly interested in Tigers stalwart Alex Twal, while shopping Sean Keppie around other clubs, according to the Sydney Morning Herald.
The Tigers recruitment manager, Scott Fulton, spent years at Manly and is close to several players in the group, and should Keppie leave, Wests would be high up the list of potential landing areas.
Luke Brooks has already made the move to the Northern Beaches, while gun juniors Latu and Samuela Fainu have gone the opposite way. Wests were also heavily linked with Josh Schuster before he extended at Manly.
Keppie only extended as recently as this year, but may be forced out as part of a salary cap squeeze at Brookvale.
Panthers
Roar Rookie
With all the forwards that Brisbane seem to come up with. Keppie would be stuck playing Queensland Cup.
Panthers
Roar Rookie
Then Sandon Smith to the Dragons?
Panthers
Roar Rookie
In actual fact . Penrith started its own local Women’s League Senior Competition this season. With 3 different age groups. It was the first of its kind & no doubt the Bulldogs will look to get players out of this competition. Then , not only the Bulldogs . :thumbup:
Panthers
Roar Rookie
Gould will just build the women’s team through the Newcastle, Central & North Coast areas then. Just like they’re doing with their lower / junior grades.
langparker
Roar Rookie
I’d be ok with Keppie at the broncos for depth next year, think they’re one prop short.
BigGordon
Roar Rookie
Sorry, but I completely disagree. According to the media, Hunt has wanted out of the Dragons since Griffin was sacked in May. After that time, Hunt played in all three State Of Origin games and was arguably amongst the Maroons best in at least 2 of them. He also played 23 games for the Dragons and was their best player in at least half those matches. If he was thinking so negatively, how could he then go out and play such high quality footy? Part of the reason why the Dragons played much better footy in the back half of the season was because the team built on his efforts. His team mates would not have lifted if they thought his attitude was poisonous - quite the opposite. You're right, it will be a tough 2024 for the Dragons, but I think guys like Hunt are professional enough to understand their position and make the most of it. I'm very confident he'll work well with Flanagan and the rest of the squad (he's said as much in recent days, so I have to assume he's not telling porkies), but only time will tell
andrew
Roar Rookie
Let's hope not.
Robbo
Roar Rookie
Looking after his son is what he is doing - this could be a disaster
Robbo
Roar Rookie
Probably time to punt Hunt
andrew
Roar Rookie
Just hope Flanagan knows what he's doing.
Tony
Roar Guru
That was probably so they could justify signing Kyle Flanagan
andrew
Roar Rookie
As I posted earlier M, i think Saints erred in releasing Sullivan.
andrew
Roar Rookie
I thought I saw Ben in Broadbeach recently Tony, walking out of a real estate office. I did a double take. No, he must have a twin. Saints are going to have to knock the endless speculation on the head or it’s going to fester all off season and into 2024.
andrew
Roar Rookie
That's an interesting thought TB. Some players seem to run out of gas after 15 minutes.
Tim Carter
Roar Pro
Whatever floats your boat, Tony.
The Barry
Roar Guru
I wonder sometimes if endurance becomes an issue because coaches don’t give them a chance to play longer
Maxtruck
Roar Rookie
Jayden Sullivan, contracted until end 2025, you can F@@@ O@f Jaiyden Hunt, contracted until end 2024, you can F@@@ O@f Ben Hunt, contracted until end 2025, we, and the NRL, will hold you to your contract. RLPA, gone into hibernation ?
Panthers
Roar Rookie
You’re hoping that it’s not the Panther Curse with Blore? As maybe it happens with every player that leave the club now days? I’m interested to know how both Manly & Newcastle have a salary cap squeeze? No insult intended , but who’s getting all the money?
Tony
Roar Guru
Time for the Dragons to punt Hunt
Red Rob
Roar Rookie
Absolutely, if they had any sense he’d have been on gardening leave months ago. This is desperation personified. If you leave me, can I come too, perhaps?