Despite growing calls to reconsider their pursuit of Daly Cherry-Evans, Sydney Roosters coach Trent Robinson has reaffirmed the club’s commitment to bringing in the veteran playmaker for the 2026 NRL season.
This comes even after another dazzling display by emerging halves Hugo Savala and Sandon Smith in the Roosters’ commanding 42-8 win over the Cowboys on Sunday.
The Roosters’ young halves orchestrated five second-half tries to seal their biggest win of the season, catapulting the club to seventh on the ladder. Savala’s clever tap-back to set up Mark Nawaqanitawase’s try and his composed kicking game once again highlighted his growing maturity. Smith also impressed at five-eighth before leaving the field with a knee injury, joining second-rower Siua Wong on the casualty list.
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Despite their form and Sam Walker still sidelined with a fractured thumb, Robinson insists that the club’s interest in Cherry-Evans has not wavered. “Nothing has moved… there hasn’t been any difference on what I said last time either,” he said before Sunday’s game. “We’re just getting on with our business until that time.”
Rumours have swirled about a potential backflip on the Roosters’ reported handshake agreement with Cherry-Evans, particularly after his Queensland Origin axing and ongoing form slump with Manly. However, Robinson dismissed such speculation, reiterating that the 35-year-old remains firmly in their plans.
Questions have arisen about the futures of Smith and Savala, particularly with Walker and Cherry-Evans expected to be the club’s preferred halves combination in 2026. While Savala’s size makes him a candidate for a positional shift, Smith may once again find himself relegated to the bench, a move that could impact his development and satisfaction.
Despite the uncertainty, Robinson sees opportunity in the squad’s depth. “There’s no wavering on what I said (about DCE), but that time will come,” he asserted. “We’re in a good spot… developing really well.”
Adding to the Roosters’ optimism were breakout performances across the park. Salesi Foketi impressed at lock in place of Victor Radley, Benaiah Ioelu contributed with crafty kicks that led to tries, and Naufahu Whyte dominated the middle with 173 running metres. Billy Smith, enjoying a rare injury-free run, grabbed a double.
While many fans remain skeptical about the Cherry-Evans signing—questioning the necessity and value of such a move—the Roosters appear resolute in their long-term vision, even as their young guns make a compelling case to be the club’s future.
