Daly Cherry-Evans has played 137 games at Brookvale Oval across his 17-year career in the NRL, but on Thursday he played his 138th at the ground for the first time wearing opposition colours. It was a moment that encapsulated the extraordinary disruption of his departure from the club that had defined his adult life.
After 15 years at the Sea Eagles, the veteran made the polarising decision to join the Roosters in the off-season. His announcement on March 24 that 2025 would be his last year as a Sea Eagle triggered weeks of off-field speculation as the team struggled on the field. That announcement sparked a 12-month spiral the Sea Eagles are still negotiating, going from title contenders to missing finals.
Cherry-Evans acknowledged he would not know what it felt like to walk in as an opposition player until Thursday night, describing the new emotions that would come with walking into Brookvale as a Rooster. Despite the weight of the occasion, the veteran appeared measured about the reception awaiting him. Over the last six months, Cherry-Evans said he has encountered nothing but positive feedback from Manly fans in the community, though he acknowledged some supporters might feel differently.
Cherry-Evans holds the club record for most games played and most games as captain, a distinction that adds layers to his return. He has scored 99 tries across his career, meaning he could bring up his 100th try at Brookvale Oval. Cherry-Evans said it would be cool to play against some friends he had the fortunate side of playing alongside for so many years.
The veteran faced heavy criticism from fans and sections of the media after announcing his departure, a situation that saw him seek professional help. His arrival at the Roosters offered a chance to reset, though early results had proven challenging for both clubs.
With Manly sitting 0-2 and the Roosters 1-2, the stakes could not have been higher as the two clubs battled for the Gotcha 4 Life Cup. The boys from Bondi prevailed, giving Cherry-Evans victory in his first return to the ground where he had spent the bulk of his storied career.