St Helens head coach Paul Wellens has refused to comment on speculation linking Canberra Raiders favourite Josh Papali’i to the club. Wellens did admit that he was one of a number of players in the NRL and Super League that he admired, but beyond that he kept his cards close to his chest when asked about the forward.
The 33-year-old has been strongly linked with a switch to the Totally Wicked Stadium, with his head coach Ricky Stuart confirming that he is keen to end his career in Super League. Stuart lifted the lid on a conversation he has had with Papali’i, with the NRL veteran saying he couldn’t bear to play against the Raiders.
As such, England looks set to be his destination and St Helens are the club in the frame, according to reports.
Of course, Wellens was asked about the links when he sat down in front of the press this afternoon but he couldn’t provide much clarity.
“All I can say is I’ve read the same things but I can’t really comment too much on paper speculation,” Wellens said.
“He’s amongst many players in Super League and the NRL I admire. He’s an international, State of Origin player, he’s done a lot in the game and there’s a lot to like about him, as there is many players down there.”
St Helens boss on retention and recruitment
St Helens currently have five overseas players in the final year of their respective contracts with the club. James Bell will be joining Hull FC for 2026, but Moses Mbye, Agantius Paasi, Curtis Sironen and Konrad Hurrell are all off-contract.
Asked when the club can be expected to make decisions on that quartet, Wellens added: “Discussions and interactions are always ongoing with players and player managers. It’s different for different individuals but maybe in the coming weeks or months we’ll start to make some final decisions there and you guys will get to know.
“In the meantime I don’t want to break confidence and trust with those players with conversations that happen.”
On the subject of the importance of signings from overseas, with Kyle Feldt and Tristan Sailor the only foreigners tied down for next year at present, he added: “Recruitment in general, whether it be overseas or not, we’re always striving to improve the squad and see where we can improve.
“The first place we always look is within our system, have we got the players who can come in and do a really good job? The likes of Owen Dagnell have proven that they can, but we will definitely be looking externally where we can add strength in depth also.”
