Raiders to Give Ethan Sanders First Crack at Halfback Role, Rule Out Move for Hugo Savala
Ricky Stuart has confirmed Ethan Sanders will be given the first possibility to fill the halfback position vacated by Jamal Fogarty, effectively ruling out any potential pursuit of Roosters playmaker Hugo Savala.
Savala’s future at the Roosters has been the subject of speculation following the club’s signing of Daly Cherry-Evans to partner Sam Walker from 2026. Though, Stuart revealed to The Sydney Morning Herald that Sanders has earned his chance, despite limited NRL experience.
“Ethan Sanders is going to get first crack, given he has a good off-season,” Stuart said. “He’s done his apprenticeship under Jamal over the last 12 months. And unlike a lot of young blokes who don’t want to do the apprenticeship and want to go straight into first grade, Ethan’s actually bided his time and shown real professionalism towards his future in the game.”
Stuart praised Sanders’ dedication, stating, “I respect that he’s taken the brave line and accepted that you have to fight for a position. He’s a young half and still learning, but he’s earned his chance, given he has a good off-season and stays healthy.”
Sanders, 21, has played four NRL games across stints with the Eels and the Raiders. Savala,23,enjoyed a breakout season for the Roosters in 2025,scoring four tries in 21 appearances,but appears likely to be limited to a bench role in the coming seasons.
NRL Rumour Mill: DCE Confirmed at Roosters, Ponga Spotted with Warriors Boss
DCE ROOSTERS MOVE FINALLY CONFIRMED
Manly Sea Eagles captain Daly Cherry-evans will join the Sydney Roosters from the 2025 season. The Roosters officially confirmed the signing on Thursday, ending weeks of speculation.
DCE Roosters move finally confirmed | 00:29
PONGA PICTURED WITH WARRIORS RECRUITMENT BOSS
A photo surfaced showing Knights star Kalyn Ponga in conversation with Warriors general manager of recruitment Andrew McFadden.
The Daily Telegraph reported Ponga and McFadden spoke at Full Time Sports Bar and Eatery, a venue owned and operated by the Warriors in Auckland.
Ponga’s current contract with the Knights expires in 2027, meaning he cannot officially negotiate with other clubs untill November 1, 2026.
However, the Telegraph clarified the situation. Ponga and his father, Andre, travelled to New Zealand for a speaking engagement at the bar alongside former Warriors forward Sione Faumuina.
ponga and McFadden met at the bar, were McFadden had placed bets on Derby Day. During the event, Faumuina playfully asked Ponga if he would consider joining the Warriors, given his New Zealand heritage, a question Ponga dismissed with laughter.
Rumours have linked Ponga with a move away from the Knights when his contract ends, with both R360 and the Roosters previously mentioned as potential destinations.
Ponga reportedly prioritizes winning a premiership and securing financial stability after his playing career, possibly through a lucrative offer from another code.