LeagueNews.co | Jason Patrick
Cronulla Sharks fullback Will Kennedy is reportedly being pursued by R360 rugby officials, which might create an opportunity for an unwanted Panthers player to change NRL clubs. According to the Daily Telegraph is reporting that Kennedy is "on the radar" of the breakaway rugby competition, and may be attracted by the financial prospects available.
Since debuting in 2019, Kennedy has completed 130 games for the Sharks but currently lacks a contract for 2026. As of November 1 last year, he has been able to communicate with rival clubs, yet negotiations with the Sharks have reportedly stalled.
Sharks officials are said to have hesitated at the asking price set by Kennedy's management earlier this season, though the club believes a contract extension could still be feasible in the off-season.
Kennedy joins a growing list of NRL players linked with R360. Notably, Warriors winger Roger Tuivasa-Sheck recently mentioned that he is in talks with the rebel league regarding a potential return to rugby, while Storm fullback Ryan Papenhuyzen has stated that the financial allure is quite appealing.
R360 is reportedly willing to offer players up to $2 million for a considerably shorter season compared to the NRL. "It does (appeal)," Papenhuyzen explained recently. "At this stage it's very early stages of that kind of thing. So who knows. I am here and I am contracted here.
"I've just got a big focus for winning the premiership and hopefully going back-to-back next year and then we'll see, but you always look forward to your future and see what's happening. I'm sure my manager is doing a good job with that and has got it all under control."
In a recent interview, Storm CEO Justin Rodski shared insights on R360, stating, "All the indications are now that they've got the funding, they're starting to build the teams... we're hearing that up to 140 players have signed."