LeagueNews.co | Jason Patrick
Former NRL player Matt Dufty is making a surprising comeback to Australian rugby league by signing with the South Sydney Rabbitohs for the 2026 season.
After a few seasons abroad, following his tenures with the St George Illawarra Dragons and Canterbury Bulldogs, Dufty is returning to Sydney. He will be joining the Rabbitohs on a NSW Cup contract.
At 30 years old, Dufty appeared to be heading towards retirement after recently leaving the Warrington Wolves in the Super League. However, he has chosen to embark on one last chapter within the NRL.
Dufty has already started training with the Rabbitohs.
Rabbitohs CEO Blake Solly confirmed to Wide World of Sports that the contract is strictly a NSW Cup deal and does not impact the club's top-30 or development lists, with Dufty being added as depth for their reserve-grade program.
"It's a NSW Cup contract - not top 30 or development list," Solly confirmed.
Dufty is renowned for his attacking prowess, having scored 44 tries in 82 NRL matches with the Dragons. His speed and ball-running ability made him a consistent threat, although concerns about his defensive skills lingered.
After his time with the Dragons, Dufty had a short spell at Canterbury before rejuvenating his career in England.