Canterbury Bulldogs Eye Ben Hunt in Potential Shock Move from St George Illawarra
Canterbury Bulldogs are reportedly considering a bold move in the player market, with veteran playmaker Ben Hunt linked to a shock departure from St George Illawarra. The potential switch comes after a challenging end to the season for Hunt at the Dragons, with tensions reportedly rising between the star halfback and the club following an internal review led by head coach Shane Flanagan.
The Dragons had their finals destiny in their own hands heading into the last few weeks of the regular season but faltered at the crucial stages, missing out on the top eight. Hunt’s performances during these key matches drew criticism, and despite being on the verge of re-signing with the club he has represented since 2018, his future with the Dragons now appears uncertain.
Reports from journalist Adrian Proszenko on SEN’s Crunch Time suggest that Hunt may not be with St George Illawarra next season. “I’m hearing he’s unlikely to be there next year,” Proszenko stated. “I wouldn’t be at all surprised if the Dogs have a look at him.”
Hunt, who has expressed his desire to win an elusive NRL premiership before retiring, may see his chances of achieving that goal fade at the Dragons, despite the positive influence of Flanagan on the team. This could pave the way for a move to the Bulldogs, a club eager to rebuild and strengthen their roster.
The 34-year-old halfback had previously been linked to a return to Queensland, with rumors of a move to the Gold Coast Titans circulating last year after Hunt requested a release from his contract. Although he eventually recommitted to St George Illawarra after talks with Flanagan, the door may now be open for a fresh start elsewhere.
Despite the speculation, Hunt remains cautious about his future, admitting last month that he is unsure how much longer he will continue playing. “To be honest, I’m still on the fence about it… It’s more about my future and how much longer I’ve got left in this game,” Hunt told Fox League.
Should Hunt make the move to Canterbury, it is likely to be a short-term arrangement as he nears the twilight of his career. However, the acquisition of such an experienced playmaker could prove to be a major boost for the Bulldogs as they look to return to premiership contention.
The NRL world will be watching closely as Hunt’s future unfolds, with the possibility of a shock transfer adding another layer of intrigue to the upcoming offseason.
