Daly Cherry‑Evans, one of the most celebrated figures in Australian rugby league, has opened up about his surprising decision to sign a one‑year contract with Hull FC in the English Super League starting in 2027. The 38‑year‑old former NRL star explained that the move felt natural because the relationships and personal connections aligned perfectly with his aspirations. After a headline‑grabbing switch to the Sydney Roosters for the 2026 season, Cherry‑Evans made an immediate impact, crossing for a try in a Thursday clash against the Penrith Panthers that propelled the Roosters to the top of the NRL ladder.
Yet, despite his success in Sydney, the veteran half‑back has chosen to leave the NRL and embark on a new chapter with the Black and Whites of Hull. Cherry‑Evans’s career is littered with accolades. He spent nine years representing Australia, captained Queensland in State of Origin, and is widely regarded as one of the finest playmakers the game has ever produced.
When asked whether he had ever considered hanging up his boots and staying in the NRL for the remainder of his career, he admitted that the idea of testing himself in the Super League had always lingered in the back of his mind. "I’ve always been curious about what the Super League is like, about living and playing in a different country," 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." The decision, according to Cherry‑Evans, was not made after a lengthy list of options. "It was simply where the relationships felt right," he explained.
"I didn’t need to consider a dozen other clubs. If you’re going to make a move abroad, you want to do it properly, and Hull gave me that sense of security and opportunity." He reflected on the timing of the move, noting that there was no strict deadline or timetable.
"The thought kept resurfacing over the years, like a whisper in the back of my mind. When the Roosters offered me the chance to continue playing at the highest level, it also presented a new set of challenges that went beyond the field. That feeling of wanting a fresh challenge resurfaced, and this time it felt like the right moment to act on it." Cherry‑Evans emphasized that his choice was driven by more than just professional ambition.
"There was a voice inside me saying, ‘Stay in the NRL, keep chasing that dream.’ But my story isn’t solely about playing in Australia. I want to test myself in a different environment, and I also want to give my family a unique experience.
My wife and kids will be old enough to remember living in the UK, and that’s something we all look forward to." While the media spotlight remains on his high‑profile transfer, Cherry‑Evans insists 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 the long‑term. My wife, my family, and the people I trust have all encouraged me to take this step, saying we’ll never regret giving the Super League a try." He added that the move is also about protecting his future as a player.
"At some point you have to think about life after the NRL. The Super League offers a new set of challenges that will keep me motivated and test my skills in different ways. I thrive on challenges, and this is a fresh one." Looking ahead, Cherry‑Evans is excited about the prospect of playing in front of British fans and experiencing the distinct style of the Super League. "The pace, the weather, the crowds – it’s all different, and I can’t wait to adapt and learn.
It’s a chance to grow as a player and as a person." He also highlighted the logistical side of the move, noting that Sky Sports will broadcast every Super League match live, with two games each round shown exclusively on the main channel and the remaining fixtures available via Sky Sports+. This level of exposure, he believes, will help him and Hull FC reach a broader audience and promote the sport internationally. In summary, Daly Cherry‑Evans’s decision to join Hull FC stems from a combination of personal connections, a desire for new challenges, and a commitment to his family’s experience.
While he remains fully dedicated to the Roosters’ 2026 campaign, he looks forward to the upcoming adventure in England, confident that the move will enrich both his career and his family’s life. The upcoming season promises to be a compelling narrative for fans on both sides of the world, as a legend of the NRL prepares to write a new chapter in the Super League.