Hull FC have been handed a blow after one of the NRL half-backs they’d shown interest in has snubbed Super League.
Jock Madden is a player who has been on the radar of a couple of Super League clubs with Leeds Rhinos also previously linked to the 25-year-old, however, it seemed that Hull FC were leading the chase in recent months.
Neither club have landed Madden with the playmaker swapping Brisbane Broncos for Wests Tigers, signing with Benji Marshall’s side on a two-year deal.
It’s a move that sees Madden return to his former club with Madden having debuted for the Tigets in 2021 before making 17 appearances over two seasons, then eventually joining Brisbane.
Madden is currently injured and has spent much of his time with the Broncos in their reserve grade side, however, there was strong Super League interest with Hull FC among those teams, something that John Cartwright had previously confirmed.
Hull FC miss out on Jock Madden
The Black and Whites had planned to pair Aidan Sezer with Madden as Cade Cust moved to either hooker or a number 14 role from the bench.
Talk of Hull FC signing Madden was first reported by Hull Live and the club’s head coach John Cartwright confirmed the club’s interest when speaking to the media, just a couple of days later.
Speaking just over a week ago, Cartwright was asked about those links and initially said: “We’ve spoken with a lot of players. There’s a few spaces left within our roster and you’ve got a lot of balls in the air.”
Specifically on Madden, he added: “He’s definitely someone who we have spoken to but we’ve spoken to several players. When we get answers and replies back, then we’ll work out what’s best for the club.
“Like I said, we’re talking to many a player and when we get replies back, we’ll do what’s best for the club.
“He can play pretty much anywhere, half, five-eight, hooker or full-back. He’s a runner with a real good kicking game and he can kick goals.
“It will be ongoing. I couldn’t give you a time.”
Despite Cartwright’s glowing appraisal of Madden, Hull FC have missed out and with Liam Knight now confirmed to be re-signed for 2026, they have just one overseas quota spot available at present.
Confirming Madden’s signing, Wests Tigers said: “Wests Tigers are pleased to announce that Wests Tigers Player #244, Jock Madden, will return to the club on a two-year deal from the 2026 season.”
On his return, Madden said: “It’s a great feeling to return to the Wests Tigers in 2026. I am excited to work and play under Benji’s leadership and to be part of a team heading in the right direction.”
