This week, speculation has surfaced regarding Daly Cherry-Evans’ future, as the Roosters appear less inclined to pursue him. Furthermore, the pressure surrounding Shane Flanagan at the Dragons intensifies, particularly concerning his son Kyle’s continued presence in the squad. Both situations highlight the intense scrutiny faced by NRL halves.
Cherry-Evans’ potential departure from Manly has been a hot topic since he confirmed his exit earlier this year. Many believed his next stop would be at the Roosters, but a recent decline in his form and subsequent removal from the Queensland team have muddled this expectation. Roosters’ chairman Nick Politis, known for keeping his word, may have reached an agreement with Cherry-Evans, hinting at a potential announcement before the season ends.
At 36, Cherry-Evans could fill the Roosters’ number seven or six jersey for the 2026 season, particularly as the club seeks a title before star player James Tedesco retires or moves to another league. Meanwhile, the Dragons, currently struggling in 12th place, have their own issues. Flanagan’s decision to sign his son Kyle—and extend his contract—has drawn criticism as they fight against a sinking season.
Losing against the low-ranked Eels in their next match could escalate calls for Flanagan’s resignation. Respected players note that without a skilled halfback, maintaining competitiveness is almost impossible. Last year’s finalists exemplify this, with teams relying on top-level halfbacks to drive success. The Dragons’ roster faces scrutiny, particularly with Flanagan and Ilias as the first-choice halves amid significant pressure to perform.
The perception of nepotism adds a layer of complexity to Kyle Flanagan’s position, as the narrative alters based on his father’s role as the coach. Veterans like Gorden Tallis observe that unless the Dragons begin securing wins, the controversy will continue to follow Shane Flanagan.
As the team confronts a tough schedule ahead, significant changes within the Dragons may be necessary. The need for a standout half is evident, especially as young talents seek first-grade opportunities. The market could shift quickly if the Roosters become serious about Cherry-Evans, possibly leaving the Dragons scrambling for viable playmakers.
In this high-stakes environment, the future of the Dragons hinges on their ability to evaluate who is more essential: a struggling halfback or a respected coach. With player movements likely, the upcoming months will be crucial for both clubs as they navigate these challenges.