Cherry ripe: Daly Cherry-Evans finally confirms NRL’s worst-kept secret
One of the biggest signings in NRL history was finally announced on Friday morning, with a short media release all it took to confirm that Sea Eagles legend Daly Cherry-Evans was joining the Roosters in 2026.
There was no press conference or even quotes from the former representative halfback who dropped a bombshell back on March 24 that he would be leaving the northern beaches after 15 seasons.
Cherry-Evans stunned the world on 100% Footy when he announced that he would not play for Manly beyond this season, with the club then upping its bid on NRL 360 later that night in a last-gasp bid to change his mind.
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By continuing you agree to our Terms and Privacy Policy.But the tactics didn’t work, with Manly eventually signing veteran playmaker Jamal Fogarty to replace him as report after report suggested Cherry-Evans would end up at the Roosters.
Nothing was ever confirmed even after both teams were knocked out of the competition, with the Tricolours waiting until Friday to announce that the 352-gamer would join the club next year and partner Sam Walker in the halves.
It’s unclear how that will play out given they are both dominant playmakers, while it also impacts Hugo Savala’s future if he wants to go somewhere else where he can start.
Cherry-Evans will officially join the club later this month, with the Roosters hoping he will do something similar to what Cooper Cronk achieved when he made the move from Melbourne and won two titles in two seasons under Trent Robinson.
“Daly’s experience and understanding of the game will be a strong addition to our group and we’re excited to welcome him to the Roosters. I’m looking forward to working with him,” Robinson said.
Originally published as Cherry ripe: Daly Cherry-Evans finally confirms NRL’s worst-kept secret
