St George Illawarra have agreed to a mutual termination of the contract of half-back Ben Hunt.
Hunt will be released from the club immediately.
Ben Hunt has spoken of his desire to move back home to Queensland.Credit: Getty
Hunt first asked for a release from the Dragons 12 months ago and has belatedly been given his wish.
Only last Friday, Dragons coach Shane Flanagan told this masthead that he expected the parties to work through any tensions.
“I don’t see any issues there, to be really honest,” Flanagan said at the time. “I’m comfortable with my relationship with Ben. The club’s made a decision.
“We just move on. He’ll be back at training. I haven’t got the exact date, but it’ll probably be early January. So we just move on.”
However, the situation had become untenable and Hunt is now on the lookout for a new club. The development means the Red V will need to find a new halfback and captain.
“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.”
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 added: “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.”
The Dolphins have expressed interest in pursuing Hunt.
“The Dolphins have always said that we are interested in good players that are available,” Dolphins CEO Terry 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.”
More to come
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