Off the Record: Rugby League Rumours and Gossip #180

Ray Mour 11 Sep 2019 12:21 PM

Which NRL forward is wondering a Super League switch? What is the future of the 1895 Cup? Which back is leaving Hull FC? Find out in the gossip column.

Turner considering Super League switch

Back-rower Kyle Turner will leave South Sydney Rabbitohs at the end of the season when his contract expires.

The 27-year-old was linked with a move to Super League in the off-season and although Leeds were interested, a move never materialised due to his wage demands. However, a move to Europe is more likely for Turner this time around, but he would prefer to stay in the NRL. He will definitely be leaving the Rabbitohs due to pressure on the salary cap and he would listen to all Super League offers.

1895 Cup to stay

There is good news and bad news regarding the future of the 1895 Cup.

The good news is that the Cup will be played next year but the bad news is that the final will still be played after the Challenge Cup final. Sheffield Eagles and Widnes Vikings made no secret of the fact that they were over the moon they had chance to play on the hallowed Wembley turf, but fans were frustrated that it wasn’t played as a curtain-raiser as the ground looked empty.

Warrington land Wigan youngster

Warrington Wolves have signed blockbusting forward Samy Kibula from Wigan Warriors for next season.

The 20-year-old is off-contract with the Warriors at the end of the season and he has not been offered a new deal, according to Wigan Today. The 6ft 4in prop has made one first-team appearance for Wigan – but will link up with the Wolves in pre-season. Kibula’s younger brother is on the scholarship system at Warrington.

New Zealand legend on the market

New Zealand Warriors star Issac Luke will leave the club at the end of the campaign after being told he will not be kept on by coach Stephen Kearney.

Luke burst onto the scene with South Sydney Rabbitohs in 2007 and went on to play 272 NRL games for the Rabbitohs and Warriors, scoring 50 tries. He is regarded as a Kiwi legend on the international scene, having earned 37 caps for his country. It’s understood the 32-year-old would prefer to stay Down Under, but would listen to offers in Europe.

Wane linked with NRL gig

Former Wigan boss Shaun Wane has been linked with taking over from Paul McGregor as St George Illawarra Dragons coach.

He has declared his ambition to take charge of the Dragons if McGregor leaves his position at the end of the season, according to Wide World of Sports journalist, The Mole. Wane is currently in a part-time role with Scotland Rugby Union – but it has been well-documented in the past that he would love to test himself in the NRL.

Hull FC back to depart

Young outside-back Jack Logan will leave Hull FC at the end of the year.

The 23-year-old is off-contract with the Airlie Birds at the season’s end and the club aren’t planning on giving him a new deal. Hull will have the likes of Mahe Fonua, Carlos Tuimavave, Adam Swift, Matty Dawson-Jones, Josh Griffin, Bureta Faraimo, Cameron Scott, Ratu Naulago and Kieran Buchanan fighting for places in the backline in 2020.