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 English Super League for the 2027 season. The veteran half‑back, who will be 38 when he makes the move, said the choice boiled down to a feeling of belonging and the right set of relationships that made Hull the obvious destination. After an eye‑catching transfer to the Sydney Roosters ahead of the 2026 NRL campaign, Cherry‑Evans wasted no time in making an impact. He crossed the line for a try on Thursday in the Roosters’ clash with the Penrith Panthers, a score that propelled the Sydney side to the top of the NRL ladder.
Yet, even as he continues to add to his already impressive résumé, the 38‑year‑old is preparing to trade the bright lights of Sydney for the historic black‑and‑white strip of Hull. Cherry‑Evans’ legacy in the game is hard to overstate.
Over nine years, he has represented Australia on the international stage, captained Queensland in State of Origin, and earned a reputation as one of the sport’s most creative playmakers. Despite his accolades, the former Kangaroos captain admitted that he has long entertained the idea of testing himself outside the NRL environment. The pull of the Super League, and the curiosity about life in a different country, grew stronger as he approached the twilight of his playing career. "It was simply a matter of where the relationships and connections felt right," Cherry‑Evans told reporters.
"I didn’t have to chase 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." He went on to describe a deep‑seated fascination with the UK game that had lingered for years. "As a person, I’ve always been curious about what the Super League is like, or what it would be like to play a different code in another country.
The world is big, and as I’ve gotten older, that curiosity turned into a genuine interest. I never knew the exact moment, but the idea kept resurfacing." Cherry‑Evans emphasized that the decision was not a spur‑of‑the‑moment impulse. It was the result of extensive reflection and conversations with his family and trusted advisers.
"There was a voice in my head saying ‘stay in the NRL, keep living the dream,’ but my story is bigger than just playing in one competition. I want to challenge myself at the highest level, yes, but I also want to inspire my family and give them experiences they’ll remember." He highlighted the importance of timing, noting that the right moment to embark on a new adventure is deeply personal. "No one can tell you when the right time is. It comes from within, from the talks you have with yourself and the people you love.
Everything just clicked for us to make the move now," he explained. The Roosters, who are currently a strong contender for the 2026 premiership, remain the focus of Cherry‑Evans’ short‑term ambitions. He stressed that his primary goal this season is to help Sydney capture the title, but he also acknowledged the need to think ahead. "Winning a premiership this year is everything to me right now, but you also have to protect your future.
My wife and I, along with our close circle, agreed that a stint in the UK would be an unforgettable chapter and something we’d never regret." Looking ahead, Cherry‑Evans is enthusiastic about the challenges the Super League will present. "I thrive on challenges and testing my limits. The Super League will give me a fresh set of tests, both on and off the field," he said. "Now that the decision is made, I can focus fully on the Roosters for the rest of the season and then shift my attention to the new adventure with my family." Beyond the personal narrative, Cherry‑Evans’ move shines a spotlight on the growing exchange of talent between the NRL and Super League.
His transfer underscores the appeal of the British competition for seasoned players seeking a new environment, as well as the increasing globalisation of rugby league. For Hull FC, securing a player of Cherry‑Evans’ calibre is a major coup that could boost both on‑field performance and commercial interest. Fans can look forward to seeing Cherry‑Evans in the iconic Hull stadium, where he will bring his vision, kicking precision, and leadership to a side eager to climb the Super League table. Sky Sports has confirmed that every Super League match will be broadcast live this season, with two fixtures each round shown exclusively on the main channel and the remaining five available via Sky Sports+.
This extensive coverage ensures that Cherry‑Evans’ new chapter will be followed closely by supporters on both sides of the world. In summary, Daly Cherry‑Evans’ decision to join Hull FC is rooted in a blend of personal connections, a lifelong curiosity about the UK game, and a desire to create lasting memories for his family.
While his immediate focus remains on delivering a premiership for the Sydney Roosters, the future holds an exciting new horizon in the Super League, where he will continue to test his abilities and inspire the next generation of rugby league talent.