LeagueNews.co | Jason Patrick
Daly Cherry-Evans has confirmed his intention to continue playing until 2026, with an official announcement set to follow after the State of Origin series.
This decision contradicts the advice given by his former teammate, Cooper Cronk, who suggested Cherry-Evans should clarify his future sooner to minimize distractions affecting both his State and club performances.
Earlier this year, Cherry-Evans surprised many by announcing his departure from the Sea Eagles, leaving fans shocked as they had anticipated his retirement at the club.
Despite the Sea Eagles presenting another contract offer, the frontrunners for Cherry-Evans's services appear to be the Roosters.
The decision seems influenced by Cherry-Evans's desire to keep his family settled in Sydney, particularly given the Roosters' ample salary cap space following player departures, including Brandon Smith, who recently joined the South Sydney Rabbitohs.
Although speculation arose that Cherry-Evans might opt out of the 2025 State of Origin to concentrate on club football, he has remained committed and was selected again to lead Queensland in Game 1.
However, his ongoing exit saga has seemingly impacted the Sea Eagles' season, prompting calls from fans and pundits alike for a resolution.
Cronk urged Cherry-Evans to resolve his future definitively to alleviate the "circus" surrounding his situation, allowing him to concentrate on both State of Origin and club duties without unnecessary distractions.
However, Cherry-Evans has previously indicated a reluctance to rush his decision, reaffirming that he would wait until after the Origin series to make any official statements.
"The first part was making sure that I would be good to go (for Queensland again) and after the first 11 weeks of the season, the motivation is as high as ever to play Origin," he stated.