Lachlan Ilias, a new acquisition for the Dragons, is “coming into the best years of his career,” according to coach Shane Flanagan. The halfback was formally released by the Rabbitohs to join with St George Illawarra for the upcoming two seasons.
After Ben Hunt, the former captain of the Dragons, was also given an early release from his contract and is now anticipated to join with the Broncos, Ilias, 24, will take his place in the No. 7 jersey.
It’s a necessary move for Ilias, who lost favour at Souths last season after being benched after the first two rounds and after being lambasted for their inability to control their assault during their 2022 preliminary final defeat to Penrith.
The halfback’s situation only worsened after he sustained a startling leg injury in reserve grade, which put a stop to his season in April.
Now that former South Sydney hooker Damien Cook is now at the Dragons, Ilias has the opportunity to play in the halves with Kyle Flanagan once more.
“Having Lachlan join us at the Dragons is fantastic,” Flanagan remarked.
He is about to enter his prime working years. He joins the fantastic group of players we have signed in preparation for the 2025 season, and his skill set enhances our present roster.
He is making good progress in his rehabilitation and will be prepared for the trials. Lachlan joins a team that is dedicated to improving 2025 and is working hard.
“We are eager for him to join us in our rage.”
Due to Ilias’ departure, the Bunnies will probably start 2025 with veteran Cody Walker and Englishman Lewis Dodd at halfback, but they do have Jack Wighton and Jamie Humphreys as backups.
After 53 games in the iconic red and green jersey, Ilias departs the Rabbitohs, but he won’t have to wait long to see them again in South Sydney as the Dragons will host them in round two.
“During his tenure with our club, Lachy has performed admirably. Mark Ellison, the Rabbitohs’ head of recruitment and retention, stated, “He’s well-liked by the playing group and won a Jersey Flegg Cup premiership here as well.”
In addition to having the chance to prolong his NRL career at another club, Lachy has worked hard to put himself in a position to recover from the horrific broken leg he sustained last year. We believed that letting him seize that chance was the proper course of action.
“He will always be welcome back here at the South Sydney Rabbitohs, and we wish him, his partner Regan, and his family the very best of luck in the future.”
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