Ben Hunt Breaks Silence on Dragons Departure: Could a Return to Brisbane Be on the Cards?
Ben Hunt has finally addressed the speculation surrounding his future, as the veteran halfback confirms his departure from the St George Illawarra Dragons. His exit marks the end of a turbulent chapter at the club, but it also opens the door to a potential return to Brisbane, the city where he started his NRL career and where the murmurs of a reunion have grown louder.
Hunt’s departure comes after years of solid service to the Dragons, but it also signals the need for a fresh start. In a candid interview, Hunt acknowledged the challenges he faced during his time at the club, which included pressure from both fans and media, as well as the weight of expectations. Despite the personal and professional toll, Hunt has maintained respect for the Dragons and their supporters, who he believes will always be a part of his journey.
However, the question on everyone’s mind is whether Hunt will make a return to Brisbane, where his NRL career began. It’s a connection that has always lingered in the background, especially since the Broncos have undergone significant changes over the past few seasons. With the emergence of younger stars like Kotoni Staggs and Herbie Farnworth, as well as the departure of key players, the Broncos are in a rebuilding phase. Hunt’s leadership and experience could be invaluable to a team that is still seeking its identity under coach Kevin Walters.
Hunt’s time at Brisbane was marked by both highs and lows. While he was part of the Broncos’ 2015 grand final team, the years that followed were often turbulent, culminating in his exit from the club in 2018. His move to the Dragons was seen as a fresh opportunity to lead a new side, but even in Wollongong, he often found himself at the centre of speculation about his future. Despite this, Hunt’s leadership qualities and on-field consistency have made him one of the most respected players in the competition.
If Hunt were to return to Brisbane, it would offer a sense of closure for both him and the club. The Broncos have been rebuilding under Walters, and with a strong leadership figure like Hunt back in the fold, they could benefit from his experience in guiding a younger squad. There’s also the added factor of Hunt’s personal connection to the Brisbane region, with his family still living in the area, making a return a potentially smoother transition for him both professionally and personally.
However, there are a number of factors to consider before any move can become a reality. The Broncos would need to make room in their salary cap, and the Dragons would likely want to ensure they receive fair compensation for Hunt’s services if he were to leave. Additionally, Hunt’s age (he’s 33) means that his time at the top level could be limited, which might influence the length and structure of any potential contract.
As it stands, Hunt’s future remains uncertain, but the possibility of a Brisbane return is an intriguing one. With both the Broncos and Hunt at a crossroads, a reunion could provide both parties with the fresh start they’re seeking. The coming months will undoubtedly provide more clarity, but for now, Hunt’s departure from the Dragons may just be the beginning of a new chapter, potentially back where it all began.
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