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The bitter standoff between St George Illawarra and captain Ben Hunt has finally reached a conclusion, with both parties agreeing to an immediate termination of the halfback’s contract.
Speculation over Hunt’s future at the Red V had been swirling after media reports over his dissatisfaction with his end-of-season review after the Dragons missed out on a top-eight finish for the sixth-straight season, and the club confirmed the skipper’s departure on Wednesday morning.
“This decision was not easy and was not taken lightly, but we need to do what is best for the club at this time,” said Dragons chief executive Ryan Webb.
“After extensive discussions with Ben and his management, it became clear that this is the best path forward for both parties. It allows the club to openly explore the player market and focus on the future.”
Attention now turns to where Hunt will land next season, with multiple clubs around the NRL in need of a quality No.7. A native of the Sunshine State, the 20-cap Maroon could desire a return to Queensland.
With a move north likely to be high on Hunt’s priority list, Dolphins CEO Terry Reader expressed interest in bringing the playmaker to Redcliffe.
“The Dolphins have always said that we are interested in good players that are available,” Reader said.
“We only learned of the situation regarding Ben Hunt from the media this morning and have not had any contact with him or his management in relation to him coming to the Dolphins.
“However we are sure if he is interested in speaking to us, we will hear from his management.”
Shane Flanagan complimented Hunt’s skillset on his way out, but appeared to take a parting shot at the 34-year-old.
“No one player, person, staff member or coach is bigger than the club,” Flanagan said. “This decision allows us to get moving (in recruitment) for next year and beyond and I’m more than confident on what will unfold.
“Ben is an exceptional player and his skill set will not be easily replaced. However, we are committed to finding the right solutions and believe in the strength of our club moving forward.”
Flanagan has spoken about bringing out-of-favour Eels captain Clint Gutherson to the Red V, who could make a switch to the halves after Hunt’s departure.
“I’ve spoken to Clint. Whether we’ve got salary cap or whether we want him … his first decision needs to be, does he want to leave Parramatta? And I’ve left it at that,” Flanagan said.
“I haven’t spoken to him about the Dragons and where he fits and where we’re heading. All I spoke about is that if you decide that you want to leave Parramatta, we’d like to chat. Yes, without a doubt. Well, I’m looking at it immediately.”
Clinton Gutherson of the Eels scores a try. (Photo by Dave Rowland/Getty Images)
The Dragons coach also discussed recruiting Josh Addo-Carr, who is set to depart Canterbury after the drug-driving incident ahead of their elimination final loss to Manly.
“(Addo-Carr) is an interesting one. You’d better go and talk to his manager. What I view a player is worth and what a manager views what a player is worth could be completely different. I have never spoken to Josh about it. Our first priority is waiting to see what eventuates with the Clint Gutherson situation first.
“Maybe down the track we might possibly look at the Fox. He’s a quality player, he’s had a hiccup and we’ll address it. But it’s not on the immediate radar.”
Hunt’s departure opens up over $1 million in the Dragons’ salary cap. Flanagan has already recruited Valentine Holmes from North Queensland and will look to further bolster his squad after a disappointing end to 2024, possibly starting with Storm utility Tyran Wishart.
Wishart’s father, Rod, played in St George Illawarra’s heartbreaking 1999 grand final defeat to the club Tyran now represents. Despite his obvious talent, there are roadblocks in multiple positions for Wishart at the Storm with Sualauvi Fa’alogo in line to become Craig Bellamy’s new No.1, if Ryan Papenhuyzen leaves AAMI Park for a larger pay packet than Melbourne can offer.
Storm have Wishart under contract for 2025, however, and there is an option in the club’s favour for 2026.
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