NRL News: Ben Hunt released by St George Illawarra Dragons

Shane Flanagan has declared the Dragons will hit the open market with a million-dollar war chest, as they look for a new halfback after the shock exit of Ben Hunt.

St George-Illawarra coach Shane Flanagan is confident the club will land a quality halfback to replace Ben Hunt with the Red-V boasting a $1 million war chest that will rock the November 1 open market.

Off-contract halves including Dylan Brown, Lachlan Ilias, Tyran Wishart, Daniel Atkinson, Braydon Trindall and Jonah Pezet are suddenly on St George-Illawarra’s radar following the shock departure of Hunt from the club on Wednesday.

After seven seasons, the Dragons captain has played his last game for the club, ending with 147 NRL appearances and one finals series and his $1 million contract for 2025 terminated.

“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 CEO Ryan Webb said.

Ben Hunt has been released from the Dragons. Picture: NRL Photos

“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.”

In a press statement, Hunt said he wished the club 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.

Flanagan offered a front foot stance when asked by this masthead how confident he was that the club would be able to replace Hunt with a quality playmaker ahead of the 2025 season.

“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.”

In talks with Eels captain Clint Gutherson, the Dragons could suddenly have just one spine player remaining from the 2024 season ahead of next year.

With hooker recruit Damien Cook and Gutherson being targeted as the club’s fullback, a new halfback needs to be found to partner this year’s five-eighth, Kyle Flanagan.

Each of the previously mentioned targets are contracted for the 2025 season with their respective clubs.

The Dragons would be in a position to offer their preferred target a deal for 2026 and beyond with the hope that their future halfback is released for 2025.

Within their current ranks, the Dragons are slim as far as their depth halves go with Lyhkan King-Togia the club’s leading young halves talent.

Despite Flanagan’s confidence in finding a solution for Hunt, the TAB were quick to react to the bombshell announcement, installing the Dragons as the longest-price team to win the 2025 premiership.

“After opening at $34 on grand final night, the Dragons have blown out to $67 and replaced perennial wooden spoon favourites the Tigers, who had previously gone up at $41 to lift the trophy next year,” the TAB’s Rohan Welsh said.

“Despite the green shoots under Shane Flanagan and some good recruiting, losing a quality halfback and general has to have an impact and the market reflects that.

“Dragons punters usually take advantage of the early value once the premiership market goes up but this time they’ve been dead quiet with the Red-V rivalling the likes of Newcastle, Canberra, Gold Coast and the Warriors as the worst backed so far.

“That could all change quickly again with some roster movement, especially if they land a (Clint) Gutherson, but we know how valuable an experienced No.7 is, so we think they have some work to do at $67.

“Where Hunt lands will no doubt also have some impact especially if he finds a way back to Queensland.”

Originally published as NRL News: Ben Hunt released by St George Illawarra Dragons