Canberra's difficult start to the season has continued on a double dealing of bad news in relation to their superstar half Jack Wighton.
The former Dally M medalist is not only set for a two-week stint on the sidelines following a late, and high, shot on a prone kicker but he has now announced his intention to 'test the market'.
Having spent the entirety of his 224 NRL career in the capital, Wighton looked a certain 'lifer' in that he'd surely end his career in the lime green.
The recent announcement suggests he's at the very least looking around to maximise both his earnings and potential to win a premiership.
Of course, it's all speculation at this stage but below are five likely landing spots for the multiple-time rep star:
3. Wests Tigers
The Wests Tigers have endured a horrible start to their 2023 campaign and I'd be shocked if it doesn't get worse before it gets better.
Simply put, the Tigers need a win. If it can't come on the field than announcing the signing of a NSW rep regular would certainly provide it off the field.
Adam Doueihi is a more than serviceable five-eight but Tim Sheens doesn't seem to agree. He has already shifted Doueihi to fullback.
Given he is 30 coupled with the Tigers deplorable start to the season, the money would have to be right.
That said if you put Wighton in that side with Doueihi, Isaiah Papali'i, Apisai Koroisau, David Klemmer and a talented crop of youngsters, suddenly the future is much brighter.
The Tigers were all in, for huge money, on Mitch Moses. Shifting that same figure to Wighton certainly isn't out of the question.
It may also provide the chance to finally move off Luke Brooks while somewhat saving face for the decision makers.
Matt Moylan is supposed to have accepted a “salary-cap friendly” (ie cheap) rate, in recognition that he missed a lot of time through injury when he was getting paid the big bucks.
So, where is Cronulla going to find a lazy $800K or more to sign Wighton? Remember, while Moylan is inexpensive, he is also signed for 2024, so it’s not as if there are any savings – unless the Sharks are able to persuade Matt to move on. I can’t see him wanting to do that.