In a revelation that has rocked the NRL community, former St George Illawarra Dragons captain Ben Hunt has confirmed that he hopes to return to the club before hanging up his boots—stirring a wave of mixed emotions among fans.
Hunt, who left the Dragons in controversial fashion last season to join the Brisbane Broncos, has now expressed a heartfelt desire to finish his career where he once wore the captain’s armband. The news has ignited passionate debate among supporters—some welcoming him back with open arms, others still unable to forgive the way he departed.
Speaking in an exclusive interview with NRL 360, Hunt opened up about the emotional rollercoaster he experienced during his time at the Dragons, and why he feels a return could offer a sense of closure.
“The Dragons are still very close to my heart,” Hunt admitted. “I know things didn’t end the way I or the fans would have liked, but I’ve always had a strong connection to the club. If the opportunity comes up to return before I retire, I’d seriously consider it.”
Hunt’s exit from St George Illawarra was anything but quiet. After several seasons marked by inconsistency, leadership scrutiny, and internal tensions, the star halfback requested a mid-season release in 2023—a move that left fans feeling betrayed and frustrated. His decision to join the Broncos, a team already brimming with talent, was seen by many as a move purely driven by competitiveness and title ambitions.
Now, with Hunt playing solid football in Brisbane and still proving he’s got plenty left in the tank, his comments about a Dragons return have opened up old wounds—and started new conversations.
On social media, the reactions have been nothing short of explosive.
“He walked out when we needed him most. Why would we want him back now?” one Dragons fan posted on X.
But others have taken a more forgiving tone.
“He gave everything to the club during a tough period. If he wants to come back and help mentor the next generation, I say welcome him home,” another supporter countered.
Former NRL star and Fox League analyst Corey Parker weighed in on the discussion, saying, “Ben Hunt’s leadership and experience could be invaluable to a young Dragons squad. It would be a bold move for both sides—but it could also be exactly what the club needs to rebuild its identity.”
The Dragons, currently in a rebuilding phase under new ownership and a fresh football department, have yet to officially respond to Hunt’s comments. However, sources within the club have indicated there’s “no animosity” toward the former skipper and that “the door isn’t closed” for a potential reunion.
Whether Hunt does return remains uncertain, but one thing is clear—his connection to the Red V runs deep, and his desire to write a final chapter at WIN Stadium has reignited emotions across the NRL.
For now, the ball lies in the Dragons’ court.
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