Just common sense Ink. No way in the world we would sign a 28yo who hasn't played in 3 seasons to a top 30 deal especially when Bunty is just given a Development. I'd put my left nut on it's a T&T or NSW Cup deal (as some of those players are being given an opp to train with the NRL squad).
He may just be seen as a squad filler for NSW Cup CC. I understand the powers that be rate Max Taotua & Tino Tavana highly so they will be given every chance to impress over the pre-season. Someone like Herbert brings NRL experience & depth and IF he does get back to decent form, he could easily fill in as a NSW Cup centre if injuries strike.
Yeah I'm with you on the frustration especially seeing some of the content other clubs are putting out. And I have no idea why the club doesn't put out the summer pathways squads yet when they've been training together for weeks.
THey might all be unsigned but convincing them to take a Trialist contract wouldn't be easy. It is only fractionally more a week than a reserve grade contract but without the security of being signed for the full season. They would potentially also be holding out for a top 30 contract an overseas contract or even potentially a country contract which all have the potential for a better and more secure pay day that a train and trial.
Older experienced players like Herbert help our younger juniors like Taotua & Tavana. Younger players always mentioned the influence & leadership Naden had on them and their game at cup level. He will be replacing that. They obviously want to be competitive in the cup competition this year so I can’t see how anyone thinks this is a bad thing.
Bird has a lot to prove over the summer before I would consider him being picked again the majority of his games were just meh.
If he is not starting the game in the backline it's just a Wasted bench spot he tries but doesn't have the physical presence to help the forwards
I'd put your left nut on it too, BWG.
Herbert wasn't up to NRL standard 3 years ago, hence why he was released by the Titans and not picked up by any NRL teams.
Although both Bird and WT have accepted staying put i reckon in the intervening couple of months before season start there may be a chance for a swap suitable to both. I just don't see a place for him in the 17, only at best somewhere 18 - 20 in the squad.
Fair enough on Herbwrt...So left testicle that Buntys on a development deal?
Apparently he had off field issues and has now got really fit...fwiw
Might not be a popular opinion - but at Penrith I always preferred him as a winger with his kick returns and early start of set runs.
Your line of thought is the reason when Makasini plays next year I think it should be wing until he proves his defense/fitness is up to task.
I heard he's coming off an ACL too.
No I do want my left one lol Bunty is on a development deal currently as listed in the NRL signings tracker.
