Shane Flanagan takes parting shot at Ben Hunt as Dragons terminate captain's $1m contract

Dragons coach Shane Flanagan has declared "no one is bigger than the club" after Ben Hunt was released from the final year of his contract on Wednesday. After weeks of speculation about where the captain's future lies, the Dragons announced on Wednesday they'd agreed to release him and terminated his $950,000 contract.

The 34-year-old halfback had a year to run on his contract but had made several comments in the media in recent weeks that made his position at the club untenable. It was revealed last weekend that Hunt wasn't intending to return to pre-season training with the Dragons in the new year.

Hunt spent seven seasons at the Dragons and has made no secret of his desire to finish his career in Queensland, where he and his wife are both from. Dragons CEO Ryan Webb said in a statement: "This decision was not easy and was not taken lightly, but we need to do what is best for the club at this time.

"After extensive discussions with Ben and his management, it became clear that this is the best path forward for both parties. It allows the club to openly explore the player market and focus on the future. Ben has been an important part of our club and we are grateful for his contributions. We wish him and his family all the best in their next chapter."

Shane Flanagan's parting shot at Ben Hunt

Hunt wished the club success for the future. He said: “I am grateful for everything the club has done for me over the years and appreciate them allowing me to explore other opportunities."

Flanagan took a thinly-veiled swipe at Hunt on his way out the door. “No one player, person, staff member or coach is bigger than the club," the coach declared. “This decision allows us to get moving (in recruitment) for next year and beyond and I’m more than confident on what will unfold.

“Ben is an exceptional player and his skill set will not be easily replaced. However, we are committed to finding the right solutions and believe in the strength of our club moving forward."

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Last week, Flanagan heavily suggested that Hunt had leaked details of his end-of-season review to the media. Flanagan had told the captain in no uncertain terms that his form to end the season wasn't good enough, and the review soon made its way to the media.

But Flanagan pointed out that only three people were privy to that conversation and suggested Hunt hold told the media what was said. Hunt later made controversial comments that he wanted Clint Gutherson to join the Red V and play five-eighth, which got officials offside because Flanagan's son Kyle is the current No.6.

Future now uncertain for Ben Hunt and Dragons

The Dragons' decision is a bold one considering there's no obvious replacement at halfback. The could use Flanagan and Gutherson in the halves if they snare the latter from the Eels, while youngster Lyhkan King-Togia is also an option.

Where Hunt will be playing next season remains a mystery, with leading reporter David Riccio revealing on Monday that no clubs would be able to sign him for 2025 due to salary cap issues. "My understanding is there are no suitors at this point in time. As far as the Dolphins rumours and Titans rumours, I think it is all smoke," Riccio told SEN radio. Hunt's manager reportedly said on Wednesday he's open to playing in the Super League in England until he can get a deal with another NRL club.