In a triumphant turn of events, Kyle Flanagan has silenced his critics in the best way possible — by earning a well-deserved call-up to the 2025 Australian Prime Minister’s XIII squad. The St George Illawarra Dragons halfback has been selected for the team’s upcoming trip to Port Moresby, where they will face the Papua New Guinea Prime Minister’s XIII on October 12th.
For Flanagan, this moment represents both redemption and recognition after enduring years of online scrutiny and harsh criticism from sections of the NRL community. Once unfairly labeled as a player who couldn’t handle the top level, the 27-year-old has now proven his resilience and quality through sheer consistency and commitment to his craft.
Now in his second year with the Dragons, Flanagan has been one of the club’s most reliable performers throughout the 2025 NRL season. Featuring in all 24 matches, he notched seven tries, seven try assists, and a remarkable 540 tackles at 91 percent efficiency — numbers that underline his work ethic and impact both on and off the ball.
Flanagan also celebrated a major career milestone earlier this year, bringing up his 100th NRL appearance in the season opener against his former club, the Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs. From that point on, he continued to showcase maturity, control, and leadership, becoming a vital cog in the Dragons’ engine room and one of only four players to feature in every game of the season.
This latest call-up marks Flanagan’s first representative honour since 2018, when he captained the New South Wales Under-20s State of Origin side — a symbolic return to the spotlight for a player who has faced more than his fair share of adversity.
Speaking after the announcement, a visibly proud Flanagan expressed his gratitude and determination:
“It’s a massive honour to be picked for the Prime Minister’s XIII. The last few years haven’t been easy, but I’ve worked hard to earn respect again — from my teammates, my coaches, and the fans who have always backed me. To represent Australia, even in this capacity, means everything to me.”
Fans and pundits alike have applauded the selection, many noting that Flanagan’s inclusion is a testament to perseverance and self-belief. One Dragons fan posted on social media:
“Kyle’s had to fight for every inch of his career. To see him get this recognition after all the criticism he’s faced — it’s inspiring. He’s proved the doubters wrong.”
Even Dragons coach Shane Flanagan, Kyle’s father, couldn’t hide his pride, stating in a press release:
“Kyle’s earned this. He’s been consistent, tough, and selfless all year. He’s faced criticism head-on and come out stronger. This call-up is exactly what he deserves.”
As Flanagan prepares to don the green and gold, the narrative surrounding him has shifted dramatically. Once mocked online, he now stands as a symbol of persistence — a reminder that character and effort eventually speak louder than words.
When he steps onto the field in Port Moresby, Kyle Flanagan won’t just be representing Australia — he’ll be representing every player who’s ever been doubted, proving that resilience truly pays off.
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