Canterbury Initiates Talks to Secure Toby Sexton’s Future After Withdrawing from Daly Cherry-Evans Pursuit

Canterbury has initiated discussions with Toby Sexton about a possible contract extension, just days after the club decided against pursuing Daly Cherry-Evans.

As reported by The Sydney Morning Herald, the 24-year-old’s representatives and Bulldogs officials have engaged in talks for a deal extending beyond the current season.

Sexton has started in all four matches this year as halfback and has excelled in Matt Burton’s absence over the last two weeks, guiding the team to triumphs against Parramatta and Cronulla.

Now, following Phil Gould’s confirmation last week that the Bulldogs would not pursue Cherry-Evans for 2026, it seems Sexton could be set to remain with the club.

“To be honest, and I know it sounds a bit cliché, but I didn’t consider it at all,” Sexton shared with the Herald.

“If the club wants to chase him, that’s their decision. I didn’t dwell on it; my focus has always been on myself and what I can contribute to the team.

“I truly believe we’re fostering a solid connection within this team, and I enjoy playing alongside them each week, as I did [against Cronulla].”

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Sexton joined the Bulldogs mid-way through the 2023 season and established himself as the primary No.7 last year, creating a strong partnership with Burton.

While promising talents like Mitch Woods and Joseph O’Neill are considered long-term options, Sexton’s significant development over the past year has led to discussions about a new contract.

Woods, touted as a teenage talent, has garnered excitement among Canterbury supporters; however, the 18-year-old remains sidelined this year while recovering from a hamstring injury and is not anticipated to make his NRL debut anytime soon.

“He’s a fantastic kid with many similar traits to mine when I broke into first grade,” Sexton mentioned to Wide World of Sports earlier this year.

“I experienced similar expectations while coming up. It’s essential to take your time and appreciate the journey, transitioning straight from school to a first-grade program.

“Very few kids have that opportunity—he’s got a great mindset and is bound to become a notable player… the club is fortunate to have him.”