Daly Cherry‑Evans, one of the most celebrated figures in modern rugby league, has spoken candidly about his unexpected decision to sign a one‑year contract with Hull FC in the Super League for the 2027 season. The Australian half‑back, who has spent the bulk of his career in the NRL, explained that the move felt natural because the relationships and personal connections aligned perfectly with his long‑term goals. After a headline‑grabbing switch to the Sydney Roosters ahead of the 2026 campaign – a move that saw him cross the try‑line on Thursday against the Penrith Panthers and propel the Roosters to the top of the NRL ladder – Cherry‑Evans is now preparing to leave Sydney for the historic black‑and‑white club in Hull. At 38 years old, the veteran is set to exchange the Australian summer for the English winter, bringing his wealth of experience to a new environment.
Cherry‑Evans is widely regarded as one of the sport’s finest playmakers. Over a nine‑year stint with the Australian Kangaroos and a lengthy captaincy of Queensland in State of Origin, he has amassed a résumé that includes multiple premierships, individual awards, and a reputation for game‑changing vision. Yet, despite the lure of continuing his NRL narrative, the allure of the Super League grew stronger as he contemplated the next chapter of his life. "It was simply a matter of where the relationships and connections felt right," he said in a recent interview.
"I didn’t have to weigh a long list of options. If you’re going to make a move, you might as well do it properly, and Hull gave me that chance." The former Kangaroo half‑back admitted that curiosity about the Super League – and, more broadly, about playing the sport in a different cultural setting – had been simmering for years.
"Deep down, I’ve always wondered what the Super League experience would be like, or what it would feel like to play under a different code in another country," Cherry‑Evans explained. "As I’ve gotten older, I’ve realized the world is huge, and that curiosity turned into a genuine interest. I just never knew the right moment until now." He emphasized that there was no rigid timeline driving the decision; rather, the idea kept resurfacing until it finally aligned with his personal and professional circumstances. "When I joined the Roosters, it wasn’t just about the football.
It was about challenging myself in new ways, and that has been true so far. The next challenge will be in a different country next year." Cherry‑Evans also highlighted the internal dialogue that accompanied the choice.
"There was a voice telling me to stay in the NRL and keep chasing that dream, but my story isn’t limited to just playing in Australia," he said. "I want to push myself at the highest level while also inspiring my family.
My wife and kids are old enough now to create memories abroad, and I think they’ll look back on this as a defining experience." While the media spotlight is currently fixed on his high‑profile transfer, Cherry‑Evans made it clear that his immediate focus remains on helping the Roosters secure a premiership in 2026. "Winning a title this year is my top priority," he affirmed.
"But you also have to think about protecting your future. After talking with my wife and trusted friends, we all agreed that moving to the UK would be a decision we’d never regret." He expressed genuine excitement about the challenges that the Super League will present. "I thrive on testing myself, and the Super League will give me a fresh set of tests," Cherry‑Evans said.
"Now that the paperwork is done, I can relax, concentrate on the Roosters for the rest of the season, and then look forward to the adventure ahead." The upcoming season in the UK will be broadcast extensively, with Sky Sports airing every match live, including two exclusive games each round, while the remaining fixtures will be available on Sky Sports+. This coverage ensures that fans both in Australia and overseas can follow Cherry‑Evans’ new journey. In summary, Daly Cherry‑Evans’ decision to join Hull FC stems from a blend of personal connections, a long‑standing curiosity about the Super League, and a desire to broaden his family’s horizons. While he remains fully committed to achieving success with the Roosters this year, the prospect of testing his skills on English soil has reignited his passion for new challenges.
The move underscores a thoughtful balance between honoring his NRL legacy and embracing the unknown, a balance that many seasoned athletes seek as they approach the twilight of their playing careers.