Surprise Move Shakes the NRL
Payne Haas’ decision to join the South Sydney Rabbitohs has sent shockwaves through the rugby league world. The move was so secretive that even the NRL chief executive, Andrew Abdo, was caught off guard by the announcement. Haas, a towering figure in the game and one of the most dominant forwards in the world, is set to sign a three-year deal with the Rabbitohs for 2027, pending no issues during the cooling-off period.
“I was surprised, it had obviously been kept well under wraps,” Abdo said. “It’s terrific for Rabbitohs fans that they’ve got something to look forward to in a year’s time, but it’s also great for Broncos fans that they get to see Payne go out and play as he has for the past few years for one more season.”
Haas made his debut against the Rabbitohs in 2018 and has since become a cornerstone of the Brisbane Broncos’ success. His departure marks a significant loss for the club, but it has also sparked a renewed sense of determination among players like Billy Walters, who believes the team can use this as motivation to secure back-to-back premierships before key players like Haas and Adam Reynolds retire.
“It was a bit of a weird one because it was a shock, but that’s all part of rugby league because you never know what’s going to happen,” Walters told the NewsWire. “Although it’s disappointing that we’re losing Payne, he’s been so good for our club and has probably been the best forward for the past five years.”
Walters added: “I’m not looking forward to tackling him next year, so I’m looking forward to having him this year where he’s on my team. He’s such a good signing for the Bunnies and it’s a shame we’re losing him, but we’re going to make every moment count. I know he’s dedicated to finishing on a high.”
He also reflected on the emotional impact of Haas’ decision. “It would have been tough on him because there’s such a good brotherhood at the Broncos, but he has to do what’s right for him and we’ll all support him in that. It was a bit of a shock, but it’s good that it’s done now and we can focus on making sure we do everything to go back to back.”
A New Era for the Rabbitohs
The Rabbitohs have long been a proud club, but recent seasons have seen them struggle to break into the top four. However, the arrival of Haas could signal a turning point for the team. The news comes just days after it was revealed that Keaon Koloamatangi will be moving to the Dragons in 2027, which initially left some fans disappointed.
“it was a bit of a downer finding out that Keaon was moving on,” said skipper Cam Murray at the NRL season launch in Sydney. “But I thought the club did really well to keep everything under wraps and go shopping. I really don’t know what happened behind closed doors and I was as surprised as everyone else when I found out.”
Murray praised the club’s handling of the negotiations. “Whatever happened was very respectful with the secrecy and how they kept everything in those negotiations private. It’s a massive win for the club considering where we were as a club a few years ago.”
He expressed his excitement about Haas’ potential contribution. “I’m stoked, everyone is. I’m just really happy that Payne’s got the confidence that he can come here and find success at this club and contribute to what we’ve been doing.”
While the focus is now on the future, Murray acknowledged the need to stay grounded. “I’m really happy with the news, but that’s next year. We have to get over it as fast as we can and focus on being successful this year.”
