Daly Cherry-Evans, one of the most celebrated figures in Australian rugby league, has spoken candidly about his surprising decision to sign a one‑year contract with Hull FC in the Super League for the 2027 season. The 38‑year‑old former Kangaroos half‑back, who has spent the bulk of his career in the NRL and most recently dazzled fans with a try for the Sydney Roosters against the Penrith Panthers, says the move was driven by a combination of personal relationships, a long‑standing curiosity about the British competition, and a desire to broaden his life experience beyond the confines of the Australian game. After a spectacular stint with the Roosters, where his leadership helped the club climb to the top of the NRL ladder, Cherry‑Evans confirmed that he will be swapping the familiar red and white of Sydney for the black and white of Hull.
The decision comes at a time when many players contemplate retirement or a final contract in their home league, yet Cherry‑Evans chose a different path, opting for an overseas adventure that aligns with his personal and professional goals. "It's simply where the relationships and the connections felt right," he explained. "I didn't have to consider a long list of alternatives.
If you're going to make a move, you might as well do it properly, and Hull offers that platform." He added that the club's environment, its supporters, and the people he met during preliminary discussions created a sense of belonging that was hard to ignore. Cherry‑Evans also reflected on his lifelong fascination with the Super League. "Deep down I've always been curious about what the Super League is like, or even what playing a different code in another country would feel like," he said.
"As I’ve gotten older, I’ve realized the world is far bigger than the NRL, and that curiosity turned into a genuine interest. I never set a timeline for it; it was just a thought that kept resurfacing." The former Queensland captain noted that the timing felt perfect now, after a successful period with the Roosters, and that his family was ready for a new chapter. He acknowledged an internal voice urging him to stay in the NRL and continue chasing the traditional dream of an Australian premiership.
"There was definitely a part of me that said ‘stay in the NRL, keep living that dream,’" he admitted. "But my story is about more than just playing in the NRL. I want to challenge myself at the highest level, inspire my family, and give my children an experience they’ll remember for years to come." The move, while headline‑grabbing, does not diminish his commitment to the Roosters for the 2026 season. Cherry‑Evans emphasized that his immediate focus remains on helping Sydney secure a premiership.
"Winning a Premiership this year is absolutely my priority," he affirmed. "At some point, though, you have to think about protecting your future and the wellbeing of your family. My wife and the people we trust have encouraged me that we won’t regret taking this step to the UK." He described the decision as a family one, noting that his wife and children are old enough to appreciate the cultural shift and will have memories of living in the United Kingdom.
"We’ve had an amazing experience at the Roosters, but the chance to live and play in the UK with my family is a unique opportunity," he said. "It’s something my kids will look back on and cherish." Cherry‑Evans also highlighted the challenges he anticipates in the Super League, viewing them as a fresh test of his abilities. "I thrive on challenges and testing myself," he said. "The Super League will give me a new set of obstacles, a different style of play, and a chance to grow both on and off the field." Beyond personal motivations, Cherry‑Evans touched on the broader context of Australian players moving abroad.
He noted that while the NRL remains the premier competition, the Super League offers a distinct style, a passionate fan base, and a chance to experience a different rugby culture. "The Super League has its own rhythm and intensity.
It’s not just a copy of the NRL; it has its own traditions and a deep-rooted community. I’m excited to learn from that and bring some of my own experience to Hull." The upcoming season will be broadcast extensively, with Sky Sports covering every match live, including two exclusive live games each round and additional fixtures on Sky Sports+.
This media exposure will allow Australian fans to follow Cherry‑Evans’s new adventure and provide a platform for him to showcase his skill set to a global audience. In summary, Daly Cherry‑Evans’s decision to join Hull FC is rooted in a blend of personal connections, a long‑standing curiosity about the Super League, and a desire to create lasting memories for his family. While he remains fully committed to delivering a Premiership for the Roosters in 2026, he looks forward to the challenges and experiences that await him in the United Kingdom. The move underscores his willingness to step outside his comfort zone, embrace new opportunities, and continue writing an impressive chapter in an already legendary career.