Dragons Land Another Veteran Halfback As Hunt’s Replacement for 2024 Season
The St. George Illawarra Dragons are reportedly eyeing a bold move to replace veteran halfback Ben Hunt, who has expressed his desire to move on from the club. Sources close to the club have confirmed that the Dragons are targeting young playmaker Moses Mbye as a potential replacement, with their eyes set firmly on reshaping their squad for the 2024 NRL season.
Hunt, one of the club’s most experienced and influential players, has been at the center of several off-field rumors about his future at the club. The 33-year-old’s tenure with the Dragons has been marked by strong performances, but his relationship with the club’s administration has been strained in recent times. Hunt requested a release from his contract earlier this year, but the club’s management held firm, wanting to keep their star player on board. However, with the uncertainty surrounding his future, the Dragons are now looking to solidify their halfback position for the years ahead.
Moses Mbye, who has played both at halfback and five-eighth during his career, is emerging as a standout option to fill Hunt’s shoes. The 25-year-old has impressed coaches and analysts with his maturity and creativity in recent seasons. While Mbye’s experience at the top level may not yet match that of Hunt’s, his potential to lead the side in the future is undeniable. His vision and ability to control games from the pivot position make him an exciting prospect for the Dragons.
This strategic shift is also in line with the club’s broader approach to rejuvenate their squad with a focus on youth and skill. Club insiders revealed that the Dragons are actively looking to build a team around young, dynamic players, and Moses Mbye fits the bill perfectly. By grooming him as a long-term solution, they hope to build a side that can be more competitive in the NRL, moving away from an over-reliance on older players who may not have the longevity that a rebuilding team requires.
The Dragons have been undergoing a period of transition, with head coach Anthony Griffin pushing for a fresh approach to their playing style. If Mbye is signed on to replace Hunt, the club would likely explore additional options for securing a solid spine, ensuring there is a balanced combination of experience and raw talent across the team. The club’s recruitment staff are reportedly in talks with several other players, hoping to build a competitive edge for the upcoming season.
However, it’s not all clear-cut for the Dragons. Losing a leader like Ben Hunt would be a major blow to their morale and team dynamics. Hunt has been a standout player for the Dragons since joining in 2018, helping to guide them to several finals appearances. His kicking game, leadership, and ability to control the tempo of a match have made him indispensable to the Dragons for years. His departure would leave a gap in both the team’s on-field performance and its off-field leadership.
As for Hunt’s future, speculation continues to mount that he may eventually find himself at a new club, with possible suitors including teams looking to strengthen their halfback or playmaker positions.
Ultimately, if the Dragons do move forward with Mbye as the man to replace Hunt, it will mark a pivotal moment in the club’s future. The NRL will be watching closely as the Dragons decide the direction they wish to take in a highly competitive league.