NRL pundits give Lewis Dodd his latest blow

Former St Helens halfback Lewis Dodd moved to the NRL in the off-season in a deal scoring him $650,000 a season. However, so far in 2025, he’s made two appearances for new side South Sydney Rabbitohs in pre-season, and was on the losing side in both games.

In his final game, he copped a ban for a ‘careless high tackle’ meaning he would miss round one of the NRL. He was replaced by fellow new recruit Jamie Humphreys and following a 16-14 win over the Dolphins last week, he looks set to keep his spot. That means Dodd is likely to be demoted to the NSW Cup, not an ideal start to his NRL career.

Australian journalist Phil Rothfield addressed the whole saga on NRL 360. He said: “We talk about recruitment. They have a $650,000 UK import playing NSW Cup.”

Lewis Dodd was signed to the Rabbitohs before current head coach Wayne Bennett took over. It could be the main factor as to why Bennett might select Humphreys over Dodd.

Fellow guest Dan Ginnane felt this is the main reason as to why Dodd might be playing more in the NSW Cup this season. He added: “Dodd wasn’t a Wayne purchase. If Wayne had bought him then he’s tied to him more closely, therefore he’s just going to play his best 17.”

Host Braith Anasta was very complimentary of Humphreys, stating his many attributes that Dodd doesn’t have. He said: “Humphreys was really good at halfback in his first game for the club. His kicking game was sensational, he’s a big body and he made 30 tackles and missed zero.”

Whilst Dodd has struggled to find his feet so far in the NRL, there’s no doubt he’s a talent that could contribute to Bennett’s Rabbitohs should he be called upon. However, it’s likely that Humphreys will retain the starting jersey, with Dodd fighting for a chance to impress his coach from the sidelines.