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Speculation has intensified around Daly Cherry-Evans’ future as he prepares for the next NRL season, with Darren Lockyer suggesting that two teams are leading the chase.
The 36-year-old sent shockwaves through the rugby league landscape on Monday night, announcing during Nine’s 100% Footy that he is parting ways with the Sea Eagles, where he has enjoyed a remarkable career.
Although retirement hasn’t been totally ruled out, it seems likely that Cherry-Evans will continue his career at another NRL club come next season.
The Roosters and the Dragons have emerged as potential new homes for the star halfback, but a return to Queensland remains a possibility. Shane Flanagan has already indicated that St George Illawarra is not pursuing him.
Lockyer, a renowned figure in league and a member of the Broncos’ board as well as a Queensland State of Origin selector, believes the Titans are among the top contenders to secure Cherry-Evans’ services, primarily due to his long-standing rapport with coach Des Hasler.
“If you’re connecting the dots,” remarked Lockyer during an appearance on Wide World of Sports’ QLDER.
“DCE has some history with the Titans, plus a strong bond with Des. At this stage of his career, he may be considering what lies ahead after football, and Queensland could present more options for him.
“Redcliffe has already expressed their interest and have the cap space, but I think the connection with Hasler gives the Titans the edge over the Dolphins.”
Cherry-Evans is well-known for reversing a move to the Gold Coast a decade ago, which drew sharp criticism from both the club’s supporters and the wider Queensland community.
Nevertheless, after regaining his spot in the State of Origin frame, Cherry-Evans has proven himself at that elite level, even leading the Maroons as captain.
While a reunion with Hasler would have its romantic angle, many, including Lockyer, believe that a seasoned game manager like Cherry-Evans could complete the puzzle for the Roosters, who are in the early running to secure the premiership-winning playmaker.
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“The other option is somewhat reminiscent of Cooper Cronk’s time at the Roosters,” the Broncos legend added.
“While Sam Walker is currently on the roster, at this moment, Sam might be better suited to a different style of team management. He tends to play spontaneously, and I believe they could complement each other effectively.
“The Roosters have let go of a few players, creating some salary cap flexibility… it’s certainly intriguing.
“There are multiple clubs in Sydney where I think he would seamlessly fit in, so keep an eye on developments.”
Lockyer also added fuel to the fire, suggesting Cherry-Evans may have already reached an agreement with the Roosters, given the club’s recent efforts to clear cap space. The Queensland skipper has openly stated that he was aware of his departure from Manly as far back as “before Christmas” last year.
Since the beginning of the contract year starting on November 1, 2024, Cherry-Evans has been officially open to offers.
“Perhaps the deal was finalised on November 1,” Lockyer quipped.
Sandon Smith has been earmarked as Walker’s long-term partner at the Roosters, but the prestigious club has a history of signing major talents on short-term contracts, as Lockyer pointed out, recalling their signing of Cronk in 2018, which clinched them two premierships.
Compiled by SportArena.com.au.
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