St Helens move for Canberra icon in doubt as fresh NRL twist emerges….
Here’s a concise 200‑word update on the developing situation:
St Helens deal for Canberra icon Josh Papali’i now in doubt amid fresh NRL twist
Once pegged as St Helens’ marquee signing for the 2026 Super League campaign, Canberra Raiders legend Josh Papali’i’s prospective move to the UK now appears uncertain. As of early July 2025, Papali’i told Australian media that he remains “unsure” about heading to Super League, despite earlier indications he would leave Canberra at the end of the season .
In June, reports strongly suggested Saints had secured a two‑year deal with Papali’i starting in 2026, motivated by his decision not to play for any other NRL club against the Raiders . Papali’i had confirmed he’d likely finish his Raiders tenure at the conclusion of 2025, citing lack of game time and contract extension refusal .
However, with the Raiders sitting atop the NRL ladder and Papali’i delivering standout performances—including averaging 100 m per game and maintaining nearly 98 percent tackle efficiency—he appears to be reconsidering his options within the NRL
With Newcastle Knights reportedly also circling, St Helens now face competition and uncertainty
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