The South Sydney Rabbitohs have officially ruled out any interest in signing St George Illawarra Dragons captain Ben Hunt, citing concerns about his age and overall suitability for the team’s long-term plans. This decision comes amid growing speculation about Hunt’s future, with the Dragons willing to release their star halfback but struggling to find interested suitors. South Sydney’s refusal to engage in negotiations could signal a wider reluctance from NRL clubs to invest in the veteran playmaker, given the circumstances surrounding his current form and physical capabilities.
Hunt, now 34, has been seeking a release from the final year of his contract with the Dragons, fueling months of speculation about his next destination. Despite being one of the league’s most experienced and talented halfbacks, his age and perceived decline in physical performance have made him less attractive to clubs seeking long-term solutions in the halves. While Hunt remains a valuable player, the Rabbitohs are prioritizing youth and sustainability, preferring to focus on nurturing younger talent for future seasons.
A Rabbitohs insider revealed that the club had weighed the pros and cons of pursuing Hunt but ultimately decided against it. “We respect Ben Hunt’s achievements and the leadership he brings to any team, but right now, we’re looking for players who can be part of our setup for the long haul. Age and longevity are major factors in our recruitment strategy, and we felt that signing Ben didn’t align with where we want to be in the next few years,” the source said.
This sentiment reflects a broader trend in the NRL, where many clubs are becoming increasingly hesitant to invest in older players, particularly those nearing the twilight of their careers. Hunt’s desire for a fresh start at a new club might be hindered by this prevailing attitude, as teams opt to focus on developing younger talent who can grow and contribute over a longer period. While Hunt’s leadership and experience are invaluable, his advancing age is seen as a potential risk for clubs hoping to build a stable future.
South Sydney’s decision also reflects the fact that they have strong options in their current lineup. With Cody Walker continuing to be a key figure in the halves, alongside young gun Lachlan Ilias, the Rabbitohs are confident in their current playmaking core. Adding a veteran like Hunt would disrupt the dynamic and potentially limit the opportunities for emerging players.
Additionally, salary cap constraints have played a role in the Rabbitohs’ reluctance to pursue Hunt. The club is mindful of managing its budget effectively and is unwilling to allocate a significant portion of its cap space to a player whose prime years may be behind him. Instead, they are focused on investing in younger talent and reinforcing other areas of the squad that need attention.
While South Sydney has stepped away from the race for Hunt, there remains some speculation about a potential move to the Super League. With Australian NRL clubs seemingly backing away, a switch to the UK competition could offer Hunt a fresh start, similar to other high-profile NRL stars who have made the move in the latter stages of their careers. The Super League could provide Hunt with an opportunity to continue playing at a high level without the intense scrutiny and physical demands of the NRL.
For now, Hunt’s future remains uncertain, with the Dragons reportedly willing to let him go but struggling to find a buyer. As the veteran playmaker contemplates his next move, the chances of him continuing his career in Australia are becoming increasingly slim. The Rabbitohs’ decision to pass on him might be the latest indicator that Hunt’s days in the NRL could be numbered.