Ex-Dragon Ben Hunt ‘open to all offers’ as new club search begins
With his deteriorating relationship with the Dragons finally resolved, Ben Hunt is now in a race to find a new club for 2025.
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Just weeks out from the start of NRL pre-season, Ben Hunt suddenly finds himself without a club.
While the veteran halfback will be relieved to have his worsening relationship with St George Illawarra finally resolved, it leaves the 34-year-old and his management precious little time to find a suitor for 2025 and potentially beyond.
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Hunt was sensationally released by the Dragons on Wednesday with a year to run on his million-dollar contract.
After a tumultuous off-season, during which it was reported Hunt had been given permission to speak to rival clubs before the November 1 market restart, he has been cut adrift, with the club confirming the news in a statement.
Hunt has wavered between trying to get out of the Dragons, and go back to Queensland, and staying at the club across recent seasons, but the situation has now come to a head.
“This decision was not easy and was not taken lightly, but we need to do what is best for the club at this time,” Dragons chief executive Ryan Webb said.
“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.
“Ben has been an important part of our club and we are grateful for his contributions. We wish him and his family all the best in their next chapter.”
While many clubs will be interested in picking up a Kangaroos and Queensland representative, the time frame and salary cap restraints could prove major obstacles.
The Dolphins are believed to be the frontrunners, with the Broncos, Bulldogs and Knights also potentially in the mix, but Hunt will almost certainly face a decrease on his $950,000 deal with the Dragons.
SEN Radio Queensland’s Ben Davis said on air he had spoken to Hunt’s manager, Cole Davis, who said his client was open to all offers.
“What now for Ben Hunt? I have been on the phone with Hunt’s manager,” Davis said on SENQ.
“This all happened in the last 48 hours. Both parties shook hands, walked away, called it a draw and they are all happy.
“The Dragons can now move one and get on with the business of playing rugby league and administering a rugby league team.”
The Dragons and coach Shane Flanagan have expressed an interest in Parramatta’s Clint Gutherson, while Kyle Flanagan is the club’s incumbent five-eighth.
Hunt had reportedly softened on a preferred return to Queensland and would now consider linking up with another Sydney-based NRL club.
“Is Ben Hunt looking to come home (to Queensland)? Is he open to all offers? Including Super League?” Ben Davis continued.
“The answer is yes, yes and yes. The only thing he won’t entertain is a switch to rugby.
“He is open to all offers. Ideally he would like to come home but could stay in Sydney and even find himself in England.
“Hunt has a week off from Kangaroos camp. Phone calls will be made in earnest and they will get to work straight away.”
Currently in camp with the Kangaroos for the Pacific Championship, Hunt said he wished the Dragons success into the future.
“I am grateful for everything the club has done for me over the years and appreciate them allowing me to explore other opportunities,” Hunt said.
Shane Flanagan also expressed his confidence in the direction the club was headed next season without Hunt.
“Ben is an exceptional player and his skill set will not be easily replaced,” Flanagan said.
“However, we are committed to finding the right solutions and believe in the strength of our club moving forward.”
Originally published as Ex-Dragon Ben Hunt ‘open to all offers’ as new club search begins
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