The Sydney Roosters have today announced that Daly Cherry-Evans will conclude his decorated NRL career at the end of the 2026 season before joining Super League club Hull FC.
Cherry-Evans joined the Roosters ahead of the 2026 season following 15 seasons with the Manly Warringah Sea Eagles, where he established himself as one of the most accomplished players and leaders of his generation.
Since making his NRL debut in 2011, the 37-year-old has enjoyed an outstanding career spanning 16 seasons, highlighted by a premiership in his maiden season, representative honours for Queensland and Australia and 373 NRL appearances to date, placing him second on the all-time list for most NRL games played.
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Cherry-Evans said he was grateful to have the opportunity to finish his NRL career with the Roosters before embarking on a new chapter in England.
“I’ve been incredibly fortunate to have had the career I’ve had so far in the NRL, and I feel like the end of this season will be the right time for me to close that chapter,” said Cherry-Evans.
“Manly will always hold a special place for me and my family. I spent more than 15 years there, made lifelong friendships and was fortunate to experience so much throughout my time at the club. I’ll always be grateful to the people at Manly and the supporters for the role they’ve played in my career.
“Coming to the Roosters this year gave me the opportunity to challenge myself in a completely new environment and I’ve loved being part of this Club. I’m really grateful for the way Robbo, the players, staff and everyone at the Roosters have welcomed me and my family.
“I still have a real desire to play and compete, so the opportunity to join Hull FC and experience the Super League is something I’m genuinely excited about.
“I also wouldn’t have had the career I’ve had without the support of my family. My mum and dad have been a constant support throughout my career and I can’t thank them enough for everything they’ve done for me.
“My wife Vessa and our girls have been there with me every step of the way, and I’m incredibly grateful for everything they’ve done and the sacrifices they’ve made along the way. This next chapter is a big move for all of us, so to have their support and for us to experience living in England together is something we’re really looking forward to.
“I’d also like to acknowledge my management. To Joe and the Ignite Sport team, thank you so much for your guidance.
“But there’s still plenty of football to be played this season and that’s where my focus is. We’ve got a lot we still want to achieve as a team here at the Roosters, and I’m determined to give my all and play my part in that.
“There’ll be a time to reflect on my NRL career at the end of the year, but we’re certainly not there yet,” he added.
Sydney Roosters Head Coach Trent Robinson paid tribute to Cherry-Evans’ contribution to the NRL over the past 16 seasons and the impact he has made since joining the Roosters.
“Daly has been one of the outstanding players of his generation and what he has achieved across 16 seasons in the NRL speaks for itself,” said Robinson.
“He has represented his clubs, state and country with distinction, but beyond those achievements, it’s the consistency of his preparation, his competitiveness and the way he has led throughout his career that really stand out.
“We knew the quality of player and person we were bringing to the Roosters, but the impact Daly has had on our group this year has been significant. His experience and composure have been important for us on the field, and he’s been incredibly generous with his knowledge and his time with the players around him.
“There’ll be an appropriate time to celebrate Daly and everything he has achieved in the NRL, but that time isn’t yet. Our season is still very much alive, Daly has an important role to play, and our focus together is firmly on what we can achieve over the coming months.
“When the season is finished, we’ll celebrate an outstanding NRL career and wish Daly, his wife Vessa and their daughters Navi, Harvie and Tully all the very best for their next chapter with Hull FC,” he added.
