Daly Cherry-Evans has confirmed he will continue playing in the NRL beyond 2025, but insists no decision will be made on his next club until after the State of Origin series.
The Manly Sea Eagles captain, who is also leading Queensland in this year’s Origin campaign, said he still feels motivated and physically ready to go another year, but underlined he will not be rushed into signing with a new side.
No distractions during Origin
Despite reported interest from the Sydney Roosters and Dolphins, the 36-year-old is adamant that nothing has been finalised.
MORE: Knights reportedly 'worried' about future of star player
“The motivation is definitely there to play on next year,” Cherry-Evans said, speaking from the Maroons camp. “When the time is right, I will sign on with a club and make an announcement, but that's highly unlikely to happen any time soon and certainly not during Origin.”
He added: “I'm the only person that has to worry about or deal with it, and that's the way I wanted it. I have been as open and honest as possible during the whole process.”
The veteran halfback dismissed speculation that he had already inked a deal with the Roosters.
“No, I haven't signed with anyone and... I've kept that really tight,” he clarified. “The Roosters are someone I have spoken to, but nothing has been done yet. The Dolphins are one of the sides I have spoken to, but again, nothing has happened.”
MORE: Daley explains May snub
He also underlined the importance of taking his time with a decision: “We live in a world of now. News is now. Social media is now. Sometimes it is nice to make sure you are doing the right thing and take the time to make those decisions.”
With 25 Origin appearances to his name, Cherry-Evans is still undecided about his Maroons future in 2026, but for now, he’s focused on reclaiming the shield.