Ben Hunt’s text message shows massive NRL contract news

Ben Hunt’s contract storm has taken several dramatic turns in the space of 24 hours with a text message revealing the truth.

Shane Flanagan, Ben Hunt and Anthony Griffin.

An early favourite has emerged for Ben Hunt’s signature as the Dragons halfback confirmed his management has reached out to St George Illawarra to request a release.

Incoming Dragons coach Shane Flanagan emphasised Hunt won’t be released after news broke on Saturday night that the halfback wants out of the club immediately.

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Flanagan was this week appointed St George Illawarra’s next coach but that hasn’t been enough to persuade Hunt to stay.

Fox League contacted Flanagan for comment and the premiership-winning coach said it was his belief the release request was made weeks ago.

EXCLUSIVE: Ben Hunt has decided to ask for a release from @NRL_Dragons
The Shane Flanagan appointment has not settled him. Has confided in his inner circle he wants out. Unsure if he’s made contact with officials at club but influential Dragons are aware. @9NewsSyd@NRLonNine

— Danny Weidler (@Danny_Weidler) June 17, 2023

Hunt officially confirmed the news on Sunday morning in a reply to a text message from The Daily Telegraph’s Phil Rothfield.

Speaking on Sky Sports Radio’s ‘Big Sports Weekend’, Rothfield said he has been told Hunt wants an immediate request, although he added the halfback did not confirm that part of the story.

Ben Hunt of the Dragons. Getty

“No one had official confirmation that Ben wanted out,” Rothfield said.

“It’s been the game’s worst kept secret for a few weeks now. He was obviously disappointed over the sacking of his great friend Anthony Griffin as coach.

“Ben texted me this morning and confirmed the stories. I’m told it’s immediate. Ben didn’t say that in the text but he wants to go and play for another club this year.”

A text message from Bent Hunthttps://t.co/QVqlnoC1hW

— BUZZ ROTHFIELD (@BuzzRothfield) June 17, 2023

Flanagan also told The Daily Telegraph that 33-year-old Hunt, who is currently in Maroons camp, will not be released from his contract which runs until 2025.

“He’ll be captain and our halfback and we’ll move forward,” Flanagan said.

“He’s got a contract. I haven’t bothered him because he’s in Origin camp but we’ll chat after the game.”