Daly Cherry‑Evans, the celebrated former Australian half‑back, is said to be in the final stages of negotiations to join Hull FC, a move that would see him cross the Tasman and compete in the Super League for the 2027 campaign. The prospect of Cherry‑Evans swapping the NRL for the English competition has sent shockwaves through both hemispheres, given his stature as one of the most gifted playmakers the sport has ever produced. The 38‑year‑old has built a reputation that spans more than a decade and a half, most of it wearing the red and black of the Manly Sea Eagles. Over fifteen seasons with the Sea Eagles, Cherry‑Evans amassed a litany of accolades, including multiple Dally M Medal wins, State of Origin appearances, and a pivotal role in Australia’s international successes.
His decision to leave Manly at the end of the 2025 season and sign with the Sydney Roosters for 2026 was already viewed as a surprise, and now the rumor mill is buzzing with talk of another unexpected chapter. Speculation had been circulating that Cherry‑Evans might hang up his boots after this season, especially after a long career that saw him represent the Kangaroos for nine years. However, recent reports suggest that rather than retiring, he is contemplating a fresh challenge in the UK, where his experience could prove invaluable to a Hull side eager to rejuvenate its roster.
The club, known as the Black and Whites, will be under the guidance of head coach Steve McNamara from the start of the 2026 season, and the addition of a veteran NRL strategist could complement McNamara’s tactical vision. Hull FC’s current halves combination consists of club captain Aidan Sezer and emerging talent Jake Arthur. Sezer, who has already been granted permission to explore opportunities with other clubs ahead of the 2026 season, could be on the verge of a move himself, potentially opening a vacancy that Cherry‑Evans would be ideally placed to fill. If the former Sea Eagle does make the switch, the club’s backline dynamics would likely shift dramatically.
Fullback Will Pryce, who has been vying for a regular starting berth, might find himself competing with newly signed Bailey Hodgson for the No.1 jersey, while Arthur could be challenged for a spot in the halves alongside Cherry‑Evans, creating a competitive environment that could raise the overall standard of play. Beyond the on‑field implications, Cherry‑Evans’ arrival would carry significant commercial and promotional weight for Hull FC and the Super League as a whole. An Australian star of his calibre brings a built‑in fan base, media interest, and potential sponsorship opportunities that could boost the club’s profile both domestically and internationally.
Moreover, his presence could inspire younger British players, offering them a chance to learn from a player who has mastered the art of game management, kicking precision, and defensive organization. The logistical side of the move also raises interesting points. While the Super League currently broadcasts every match live on Sky Sports, with two games per round shown exclusively on the main channel and the remainder streamed via Sky Sports+, the league is actively seeking to expand its audience in the Southern Hemisphere. A high‑profile signing such as Cherry‑Evans could serve as a catalyst for increased viewership in Australia, potentially paving the way for more cross‑continental collaborations, joint marketing initiatives, and even future player exchanges.
If the deal is sealed, Hull FC will need to consider contract details that suit both parties. Given Cherry‑Evans’ age, a short‑term contract with performance‑related incentives might be the most pragmatic approach, allowing him to contribute his expertise while retaining flexibility for a possible return to the NRL or retirement after a successful stint abroad.
The club’s management will also have to navigate salary cap constraints, ensuring that the addition of a marquee player does not compromise the development of existing talent. In summary, the rumor that Daly Cherry‑Evans is on the verge of signing with Hull FC for the 2027 season represents a potentially transformative moment for both the player and the club.
It would mark a rare instance of an NRL legend transitioning to the Super League at the tail end of his career, offering a fresh narrative for fans and a strategic boost for Hull FC’s ambitions. While the final outcome remains to be confirmed, the mere possibility has already ignited discussion across rugby league circles, highlighting the ever‑evolving nature of the sport’s global landscape.