Daly Cherry‑Evans, one of the most celebrated figures in the history of Australian rugby league, has officially inked a one‑year agreement with English club Hull FC, confirming his move to the Super League for the 2027 campaign. The 38‑year‑old former Kangaroos half‑back, whose career has been marked by a series of high‑profile switches, will now bring his wealth of experience to the Hull side, a development that has sent ripples through both hemispheres.
Cherry‑Evans’ reputation as a play‑making maestro is well‑established. Over a fifteen‑year tenure with the Manly Sea Eagles, he amassed a record number of games, guided the club to multiple finals appearances, and earned a reputation for his precise kicking, vision, and leadership on the field.
In 2026 he surprised many by departing Manly for the Sydney Roosters, a move that underscored his willingness to embrace new challenges even after a long spell with a single club. The latest transition to Hull FC continues that pattern of unexpected yet strategic career decisions. Speculation had been swirling throughout the current season that Cherry‑Evans might hang up his boots after a nine‑year stint representing the Australian national side.
Rumours suggested retirement as a plausible endpoint, especially given his age and the physical demands of top‑level rugby league. However, rather than stepping away from the sport, he has opted to extend his playing days by crossing the Tasman Sea and testing himself in the English competition. This decision aligns with a growing trend of seasoned NRL veterans seeking fresh opportunities in the Super League, where their expertise can both elevate the standard of play and provide mentorship to emerging talent. Hull FC, known as the Black and Whites, will be under the stewardship of head coach Steve McNamara from the start of the 2027 season.
McNamara, a former Great Britain international, brings a modern, analytical approach to the club’s game plan. The addition of an NRL stalwart such as Cherry‑Evans to his coaching staff’s strategic toolkit is expected to add a new dimension to Hull’s attacking structure. Cherry‑Evans’ ability to read the game, orchestrate set‑pieces, and execute decisive passes will be invaluable as the club aims to climb the Super League ladder. The current half‑back partnership at Hull FC consists of club captain Aidan Sezer and Jake Arthur.
Sezer, a versatile play‑maker with a solid track record in the English game, has already been granted permission to explore offers from other clubs ahead of the 2027 season. This potential departure creates an opening for Cherry‑Evans to slot directly into the halves, either alongside Arthur or as the primary orchestrator of the team’s offense.
His presence will also influence the selection dynamics for other positions. For example, young full‑back Will Pryce will now find himself competing with newly signed Bailey Hodgson for the number one jersey, while the half‑back spots will be hotly contested.
Beyond the on‑field implications, Cherry‑Evans’ move carries commercial and fan‑engagement significance. Hull FC’s supporters will have the chance to witness a player who has been part of multiple NRL grand finals and international campaigns. The club anticipates a boost in ticket sales, merchandise revenue, and media interest, particularly from Australian audiences following the journey of one of their own. In addition, the partnership opens avenues for cross‑continental promotional activities, such as joint events, player exchanges, and digital content aimed at expanding the Super League’s global footprint.
For those interested in watching the action live, Super League matches are broadcast extensively. Sky Sports holds the primary rights, delivering live coverage of every game throughout the season. Two fixtures per round are shown exclusively on the main Sky Sports channel, while the remaining five matches are streamed via Sky Sports+. This comprehensive coverage ensures that fans, both in the UK and abroad, can follow Hull FC’s campaign and Cherry‑Evans’ performances week after week.
In summary, Daly Cherry‑Evans’ signing represents a landmark moment for both the player and Hull FC. The 38‑year‑old’s decision to extend his career in the Super League underscores his enduring passion for the sport and his desire to contribute at the highest level. With Steve McNamara at the helm and a roster poised for transformation, Hull FC is set to embark on an ambitious 2027 season, anchored by the strategic brilliance of one of rugby league’s most respected play‑makers.
The upcoming months will reveal how this high‑profile acquisition influences the club’s fortunes, the competitive balance of the league, and the broader narrative of NRL talent migration to the UK.