Brodie Croft’s Potential Return to the NRL
Brodie Croft, a prominent figure in the English Super League, may be on the verge of returning to the National Rugby League (NRL) following discussions with the St George Illawarra Dragons. The halfback last played in the NRL for the Brisbane Broncos in 2021, after spending two seasons with the Red Hill-based club. Prior to that, he spent the first four years of his career with the Melbourne Storm.
Croft was once seen as a potential successor to Cooper Cronk at the Storm, but he struggled to find his rhythm in the NRL. After playing 65 games, he was eventually sent to England. However, his time in the UK has been highly successful, with 55 appearances for the Salford Red Devils in 2022 and 2023, and 61 games for the Leeds Rhinos since.
A man of steel winner, Croft has consistently been linked with a return to the NRL. He is believed to have a clause in his contract that allows him to make the move, although this detail may not be crucial as he is set to be off-contract at the end of the current season.
According to Love Rugby League, Croft has had conversations with the Dragons, though no formal offer has been made yet. Other clubs in England, such as the Warrington Wolves, are also interested in securing the 28-year-old halfback’s signature, while Leeds aims to keep him.
Warrington is set to lose George Williams to the Dolphins in the NRL by the end of the year, although the Redcliffe-based club has not officially confirmed this move. Zero Tackle inquired about Williams’ status on Tuesday, but the Dolphins confirmed no official announcement could be made.
Croft, who has scored 40 tries during his time in England, could be a valuable addition to the Dragons. The team may look for an experienced halfback to guide the way until Kade Reed is ready for more permanent first-grade opportunities.
Kade Reed’s Injury and the Need for a New Halfback
Kade Reed is currently facing a three-month lay-off due to an injury, which highlights the need for an experienced halfback. The Dragons have already been linked to Luke Metcalf, who is set to explore options away from the New Zealand Warriors. They have also pursued other halfbacks in recent times.
Before Reed’s debut, Kyle Flanagan had been playing in the number seven position after Daniel Atkinson started the year there but struggled to adapt to the role. With an obvious gap in this position, the Dragons making a play for Croft wouldn’t be out of the question.
Croft has previously expressed his desire to have another go at the NRL before he ends his career. It is understood that an answer to Croft’s future could be secured in the next couple of weeks.
Potential Moves and Future Outlook
The interest from multiple clubs in England shows that Croft is a sought-after player. The Warrington Wolves are keen to sign him, especially as they will be losing George Williams to the Dolphins. Meanwhile, Leeds is determined to retain his services.
The Dragons’ pursuit of Croft is driven by their need for an experienced halfback to support the development of younger players like Kade Reed. With the right leadership, the team can maintain stability while nurturing emerging talent.
As the situation unfolds, it remains to be seen whether Croft will make the return to the NRL or stay in England. However, the possibility of a move back to Australia is certainly on the table, and fans are eagerly waiting for any updates.
