South Sydney Rabbitohs’ outside back Taane Milne appears to be on the chopping block, with rumors swirling that the club is preparing to cut ties after a highly underwhelming season. With no NRL contract secured for 2025, and his performance failing to meet expectations, Milne’s time in the famous cardinal and myrtle jersey seems to be running out.
After another disheartening year where the Rabbitohs failed to make the NRL Finals, the club is set to embark on a new era under the stewardship of Wayne Bennett. This will mark Bennett’s return to the Rabbitohs as they strive to rebuild their squad and bring in fresh talent. The club has already signed notable players such as Josh Schuster and Lewis Dodd in an attempt to reinvigorate their chances for the 2025 season. However, it appears that Milne will not be part of these future plans.
Milne, who has been with the Rabbitohs for several seasons, has reportedly been offered to multiple Super League clubs as South Sydney explores all options to free up roster space. Despite not being officially farewelled along with other departing players, the writing is on the wall for the 28-year-old Fijian international.
Huddersfield Giants, Leeds Rhinos, Warrington Wolves, and even St Helens are all reportedly keeping tabs on Milne’s availability. With international quota spots still open for 2025, Milne’s move to the Super League appears increasingly likely. St Helens, in particular, could be a landing spot should ex-NRL center Konrad Hurrell depart, leaving a vacancy in their squad.
This isn’t the first time Milne’s future with the Rabbitohs has been questioned. Earlier in the 2022 season, rumors emerged that the club had attempted to shop him around to other NRL and Super League teams, signaling that they’ve long considered moving in a different direction.
Milne’s versatility, which allows him to play on the wing, in the centres, and even in the forward pack, is an asset that makes him attractive to potential suitors. However, his performances in 2024 did little to convince the Rabbitohs that he deserves a place in their future plans. Appearing in 21 matches this season, Milne managed to score only four tries, along with making 38 tackle busts and four line breaks. He provided five try assists and averaged 152 running metres per game, yet these contributions fell short of what the Rabbitohs needed.
For Milne, it may be time to move on from South Sydney and seek a fresh start in the Super League. While his future remains uncertain, what’s clear is that his time with the Rabbitohs is likely coming to an end as the club looks to rebuild.