Koloamatangi Unconcerned by Dragons' Ladder Position Amid Future Move
South Sydney Rabbitohs forward Keaon Koloamatangi has declared he "couldn't care less" that St George Illawarra sit last on the NRL ladder after the opening month of the 2026 season, even as he gears up to become the Dragons' marquee recruit in 2027. The 27-year-old, who has evolved from a solid second-rower into an elite middle forward under coach Wayne Bennett's guidance since his return to South Sydney last season, remains steadfastly focused on his current club's performance.
State of Origin Recall Looms Amid Stellar Form
NSW coach Laurie Daley recently indicated that Koloamatangi would be in contention for a State of Origin recall if he maintains his current high level of play. This recognition underscores his status as one of the most exciting acquisitions in the Dragons' recent history. However, since signing a lucrative five-year deal with St George Illawarra in January, the club has endured a dismal start to the 2026 campaign, suffering four consecutive defeats to plummet to the bottom of the ladder.
If the Dragons fall to North Queensland this weekend, they will extend their losing streak to nine games, marking their longest slide as a merger club. Despite this troubling form, Koloamatangi insists it has barely registered on his radar and causes him no anxiety. "I don't really watch too much footy, to be honest," he admitted. "At the moment, I couldn't care less the way any other team's doing. My sole focus is the Rabbitohs. Whoever I'm versing, I hope we beat 50-0. Even though I'm going there next year, it doesn't play on my mind at all."
Transformative Impact Expected on Dragons' Young Forwards
Koloamatangi's arrival at the Dragons is anticipated to have a transformative effect on the club's highly-rated crop of young forwards, but he emphasizes that his attention remains squarely on the present. "That time will come," he stated. "There's nothing I can do right now, to be honest. Whatever happens, happens. Like I said, I don't really care about them at the moment." His comments highlight a professional detachment as he continues to excel with South Sydney, where his development has been a key storyline this season.
Bennett's Mood Improves After Bye Week
Wayne Bennett, known for his candid assessments, was scathing in his post-match appraisal of the Rabbitohs' narrow 20-16 victory over Wests Tigers in round three. However, following South Sydney's round-four bye, Bennett returned to training in a noticeably better mood ahead of the traditional Good Friday clash with Canterbury. Koloamatangi noted, "(He's) a lot happier, he had his break, he went back to Queensland, he refreshed himself, looked after his cows, so I think he's happy." This shift in demeanor bodes well for the team's preparations as they aim to build momentum.
Injury Updates Boost Rabbitohs' Squad Depth
In positive news for South Sydney, Campbell Graham appears set to return from a minor shoulder injury and line up on the right wing after participating in team training on Tuesday. Meanwhile, Brandon Smith has resumed training following a calf injury, though he spent most of his time with the reserves and may be given an additional week to rest. Souths centre Jack Wighton provided an optimistic update, saying, "He looked really sharp today, he's flying now. It'll be this week or next week, for sure." These developments could strengthen the Rabbitohs' lineup as they navigate the early stages of the season.
As Koloamatangi continues to shine for South Sydney, his impending move to the Dragons adds an intriguing subplot to the NRL narrative, with fans eagerly watching how his form and focus will shape both clubs' fortunes in the coming years.
