Daly Cherry-Evans, the long-serving Queensland Maroons halfback and Manly Sea Eagles captain, finds himself at a career-defining juncture following his shock omission from Game 2 of the 2025 State of Origin series.
The 35-year-old playmaker, affectionately known as DCE, has been a pillar of Queensland’s Origin dominance for over a decade. But with coach Billy Slater opting for a new halves combination, questions are now swirling around Cherry-Evans’ future in both representative football and the NRL.
While Slater has publicly praised Cherry-Evans’ leadership and legacy, insiders suggest the decision was performance-based—fuelled by a dip in form and the off-field distraction of his rumored exit from Manly at the end of the season. Slater’s move has shattered long-held assumptions about the Maroons’ loyalty-first selection policy, and sparked a wave of public debate.
Sources close to the Maroons camp say the message is clear: it’s time for Cherry-Evans to be transparent about what comes next.
> “Daly has earned the right to control his narrative, but the silence is only creating more uncertainty,” one former Origin great told NRL Daily. “Whether it’s retirement, a club switch, or a push to fight back, people deserve to hear it from him.”
Despite a proud and decorated career, Cherry-Evans’ future is now clouded by speculation. His contract situation at Manly remains unresolved, and the Sea Eagles’ inconsistent 2025 campaign has only intensified scrutiny. Multiple clubs are believed to be monitoring the situation closely, including the Dolphins and Titans.
Meanwhile, the Maroons must move forward without one of their most experienced generals, as they aim to recover from a disappointing loss in Game 1. Whether Cherry-Evans has played his final Origin game—or plans a last hurrah—remains to be seen.
For now, fans and pundits alike await answers from one of the game’s most respected figures.
What’s Next for DCE?
Will he retire at season’s end?
Could a shock club switch reignite his career?
Is he holding out for a Maroons recall?
Only one person can answer those questions—and the NRL world is waiting.
