Daly Cherry-Evans Commits to Putting Sydney Roosters First, Won't Block Young Talent
In a candid revelation ahead of Thursday night's highly anticipated grudge match against his former club, the Manly Sea Eagles, Daly Cherry-Evans has made a firm promise not to overstay his welcome at the Sydney Roosters. The seasoned halfback, aged 37, has openly stated that he will willingly step aside if the club believes his presence is hindering the development of emerging young halves.
Future Decision to Be Guided by Club's Needs
Cherry-Evans confirmed that he is unlikely to make a definitive call on his playing future for several months, emphasizing that his priority is ensuring the Roosters are not in a position where they are holding back promising youngsters. "As long as the club's not in a position where they're not holding any young kids back, that would be my priority right now in my career," Cherry-Evans declared. "If the Roosters didn't have space for me next year because of the potential of someone else, that is completely OK. But I'm a player that will continue to back myself to play at a higher level."
The veteran playmaker, who signed a one-year deal with the Roosters after last season, acknowledged there is believed to be an option for him to continue into 2027. However, he stressed that he is comfortable with whatever outcome arises, whether it leads to another season or retirement. "I'm really OK with either thing happening, but honestly, I'm not going to know right now. I'm probably not going to know in a couple of months' time," Cherry-Evans added.
Reflecting on Performance and Mentorship Role
Cherry-Evans' future has been a topic of intense speculation, with Tuesday marking exactly one year since he confirmed that 2025 would be his final season with the Sea Eagles. This season, the 354-game veteran has faced some criticism, particularly for his right-edge defence in matches against the Warriors and Penrith, despite impressing in the game against South Sydney.
"It hasn't been the start we wanted as a team, and certainly my role within that hasn't been up to scratch just yet," he admitted. "But I'm really positive things are going to change and I'm going to continue to try and play good footy. If that leads to another year, then that's great. But if it doesn't, that's also not the worst thing in the world as well."
If Cherry-Evans decides to retire, he indicated he would take a similar approach to last year, not declaring his future until after the season concludes. This measured stance reflects his focus on the present and his commitment to the team's success.
Young Halves Loom as Future Stars
With Sam Walker currently partnering Cherry-Evans in the halves, the Roosters have two promising playmakers waiting in the wings: last season's breakout star Hugo Savala and 20-year-old Toby Rodwell. The quartet is known to share a close bond, with Roosters captain James Tedesco expressing confidence that Savala and Rodwell are not deterred by Cherry-Evans' presence.
"Chez has been a great mentor for all those young halves. And Sammy as well," Tedesco noted. "Sammy's constantly asking Chez questions, all the halves are, picking his brain. To have a guy like that come in and learn from him, pass on his experiences, he's only going to make the future generation of our halves better."
Tedesco further highlighted that Savala is expected to play a role this year following an ankle injury, while Rodwell is viewed as a long-term prospect. This mentorship dynamic underscores Cherry-Evans' value beyond his on-field performance, as he helps shape the next generation of Roosters talent.
As the Roosters prepare for their clash with Manly, Cherry-Evans' selfless attitude and focus on club development set a positive tone for the team's future, regardless of how long his own career continues.
