Josh Papali’i spurns NRL offers, will play in Super League rather than play against Canberra

Canberra great Josh Papali’i feels he has more runs in his veteran legs, but with the Raiders unwilling to give him a new deal the Green Machine legend is heading overseas.

Raiders legend Josh Papali’i is closing in on a deal in England that will pull down the curtain on his incredible NRL career.

In what could prove to be an extraordinary dose of motivation for the second-placed Raiders premiership pursuit, one of their greatest-ever players is eyeing a switch to the UK despite receiving interest from rival NRL clubs.

The decision to pursue a contract in England is based on Papalii being unwilling to remain in the NRL and be made to play against his beloved Raiders.

The development has emerged amid reports from the UK that Papali’i is in negotiations with St Helens to sign a two-year deal, beginning next season.

The Daily Telegraph has learned that the champion prop, who is the most-capped Raider of all-time, has been transparent with Raiders management about his intention to extend his career overseas.

The 33-year-old, who has played 319 NRL matches, is enjoying some of the best football of his career, having made his debut for Canberra in 2011.

Raiders coach Ricky Stuart said he was uncertain of Papalii’s discussions with any other clubs, but confirmed it would be the champion prop’s last season for the Green Machine.

SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA - JUNE 01: Josh Papali'i of the Raiders celebrates winning the round 13 NRL match between Sydney Roosters and Canberra Raiders at Allianz Stadium, on June 01, 2025, in Sydney, Australia. (Photo by Cameron Spencer/Getty Images)

“Papa (Papalii) came and spoke to (CEO) Don Furner and I some time ago and told us that he has some interest in England and also other NRL clubs and he simply said, I can’t play against the Raiders and I’ll look to secure a contract in England at some stage,’’ Stuart told The Daily Telegraph.

“From our club’s point of view, we couldn’t be prouder of Josh.

“He’s been an extremely loyal player and when the discussion turns to legends of the Raiders, one of the first name’s spoken will be Papa’s.

“How this unfolds for Papa I’m not sure, but what I do know is that he’ll give everything he has until the very last step he takes on the field for the Raiders.’’

Papalii will pull on the Raiders jersey for the 320th time against the Knights at McDonald Jones Stadium on Friday night.