Australian RL take shot at Jack Welsby as he turns down NRL move

After endless speculation, St Helens and England star Jack Welsby committed to a new deal at St Helens until the end of 2027 keeping him in Super League for the next four years.

Welsby has stirred up plenty of NRL interest in recent times starting with the World Cup but being kicked into overdrive by his performance against Penrith Panthers in the World Club Challenge.

It was no surprise to see St George Illawarra Dragons move for Welsby to replace Junior Amone but they have missed out on him.

However, many in Australia believe this decision is unambitious from Welsby. Notorious NRL journalist, the Mole of Wide World of Sports, has claimed that maybe the fullback isn’t up to it taking to X to say: “Maybe he’s not up to it.”

This came as Australian page Rugby League News asked: “If this is true, why would he not want to come over and test himself? Even for two or three years. Very strange to be called the best in the UK but have no ambition to prove yourself to be the best in the world.”

Plenty of NRL fans are not happy with some accusing him of using the NRL to get a bigger deal. “So, he said ‘I’m going to the NRL’ to get a bigger deal out of his hometown club.'”

Meanwhile, Australian publication the West Australian focused on the damage this will do to St George:

“One of the best young talents in rugby league has knocked back interest from NRL clubs to stay in the Super League, with St Helens star Jack Welsby inking a new deal that will keep him with the English giants until the end of the 2027 season.

“Welsby had been linked to several clubs in Australia, with Dragons coach Shane Flanagan making it clear that the 22-year-old was on their radar.

“But the Dragons have missed their man that continues a disastrous week for the Red V, with high-profile targets Tom Dearden and Addin Fonua-Blake signing elsewhere.”

Whilst Zero Tackle revealed that there were other NRL clubs interested:

“English international Jack Welsby has recommitted to Super League club St Helens until the end of 2027, knocking back reported high levels of interest from the NRL.

“The 22-year-old has garnered interest from multiple Australian clubs ahead of his contract’s expiry for 2025, however the emerging playmaker has re-signed with the Saints for a further two seasons.

“A three-time Super League winner, Welsby has already captained England on the international stage and gained high levels of attention down under earlier this year with his best-afield outing in St Helens’ World Cup Challenge win over NRL premiers Penrith.

“With St George Illawarra and other Australian suitors lining up for Welsby’s signature, the Englishman has instead opted to remain in the UK after making the big decision to recommit to the Saints.”