“Hate to have any regrets” – George Williams speaks on Warrington Wolves’ future amid NRL interest

Warrington Wolves captain and NRL target, George Williams, has once again been questioned on his future, and has said he’d “hate to have any regrets” should he not pursue a second NRL opportunity. 

The Wolves skipper has been linked with a move to NRL side, The Dolphins, coached by former St Helens boss Kristian Woolf. 

Initial reports suggested a $400,000 transfer fee to bring him over before his contract expired, then it emerged a player switch could take place, with Kodi Nikorima, brother of current Salford player Jayden, joining the Wire in place of the England captain. 

The talk of a player switch has died down, however after Warrington’s win over Hull FC in June on Sky Sports, Williams addressed his future. When asked if he would be at the club next year, he said “I’m not too sure”. 

Now, as part of a column with the BBC, he has once again had his say on his plans for next year, whilst promoting this year’s upcoming Ashes tour.

Warrington Wolves captain confirms NRL interest

Williams said: “Right now there’s a lot of negotiating going on and logistics surrounding my future beyond 2025, so I’m leaving it up to my agent.” 

He continued: “I’ve had some great, respectful conversations with Warrington – everything’s above board and there are no bad feelings between anyone involved.” 

The England skipper is now 30, and he believes that time is running out if he is to head down under once more. 

He said: “I’d be stupid not to listen to a great opportunity from the Australian NRL and I think the club understand that. I’ve stressed to them it’s not the case that I hate it here and I’m wanting out – but some things arise in life and I’d hate to have any regrets.” 

He added: “We’ll have some good, honest conversations and see what will happen.” 

Williams’ first crack at the NRL was with the Canberra Raiders. After leaving Wigan in 2020, he played 32 times for the Green Machine and scored 10 tries. 

Warrington would need to find a replacement for the halfback, as they will need someone to partner Marc Sneyd in the halves. Leon Hayes will be back from injury soon, whereas Oli Leyland returns next year, however it is a huge risk throwing either of them in without a backup option.