Super League sides showing “real interest” in NRL half-back

Reports down under have emerged that multiple Super League teams have enquired about the availability of South Sydney Rabbitohs half-back Dean Hawkins.

Hawkins looks set to play for the Bunnies this weekend when Souths take on their rivals Sydney Roosters but he is a player in demand with interest shown by NRL clubs but also several Super League sides.

That has been reported by The Mole of Wide World Of Sports with the player’s manager having confirmed his availability and the interest shown in him.

At 25 years of age, Hawkins has only played six games in the NRL but looks set for a seventh this weekend with starting half Lachlan Ilias having been dropped from Jason Demetriou’s selection.

Despite that, the decision that saw Ilias designated as the starter for the season has led several sides from both the NRL and Super League to target the 25-year-old, as confirmed by Hawkins’ manager.

Manager Tyran Smith had told Wide World Of Sports: “Dean is Souths through and through but there are other NRL clubs have shown a real interest in him – as well as Super League teams.”

He continued: “He was the NSW Cup player of the year last year and captained the Rabbitohs team that won national championship.

“Clubs have been watching him for some time – they know he is only on a one year deal and they want him.

“We have already spoken to a couple of clubs but will wait and see how he goes the next few weeks before taking the next step.

“It’s been frustrating for him the last couple of years not getting many chances at NRL level so we have to do what is best for his career.”

Doing “what is best for his career” could well see Hawkins make the switch to Super League as many halves of a similar age have done in recent years to revitalise their career.

The likes of Jackson Hastings, Brodie Croft and Jake Clifford have all made that switch with great success in recent years, with both Hastings and Clifford having since returned back to the NRL having gained invaluable experience.

Super League ambitious Wakefield land NRL signing

The season might have already started but the recruitment process continues for British clubs and that has seen Championship side Wakefield Trinity sign Ky Rodwell from the NRL.

Trinity confirmed yesterday that they had acquired the services of the forward who becomes another major asset in their sizeable pack that includes the likes of Renouf Atoni, Caleb Uele and Josh Bowden.

The 24-year-old will be a handy player for Daryl Powell’s side in their pursuit of Super League rugby with Rodwell penning a two-year deal.

He will now travel to the UK and should arrive within the week to link up with his new teammates and he had spoke on his delight at making the move in a statement on the club’s website.

Rodwell said: “I’m extremely privileged and excited to be continuing my rugby league journey with Wakefield. I’ve heard a lot about the place and can’t wait to meet all you Trinity fans! I’m looking forward to meeting the rest of the boys and ripping in for the 2024 season.”