The Rabbitohs should rue their roster oversight regarding Reynolds, while the Broncos’ half secures a contract extension, having the final laugh.
In the two years following South Sydney’s decision to part ways with Adam Reynolds, there has been ongoing debate about whether it was the right move to let go of a veteran player whose performance was perceived to be declining, or if they should have retained him.
However, the debate has now concluded. It has become evident that this decision stands out as one of the most significant roster errors in recent NRL history.
Reynolds has not only demonstrated that he remains a top-tier halfback, but the Rabbitohs have also experienced a considerable decline since parting ways with their esteemed local talent. Souths had argued that they presented Reynolds with a competitive offer to extend his contract into the 2022 season on a one-year deal, with the implicit assurance of increased salary cap space in the subsequent season to compensate him adequately.
Such treatment of a club legend who has contributed significantly, playing 231 matches, scoring more points than any other Rabbitoh, and being a pivotal figure in their historic Grand Final victory, is undeniably disrespectful. At 31 years old, Reynolds was far from being past his prime.
In an era where top halves continue to excel well into their mid-30s, speculating about Reynolds’ supposed injury concerns seems unfounded. His track record of consistently playing 20 or more games in nine out of his 11 seasons for the Bunnies, never falling below 16 appearances, speaks volumes about his durability and reliability.
The Rabbitohs were aware of the promising young halfback, Lachlan Ilias, waiting in the wings. However, while Ilias shows potential as a good young halfback, he doesn’t match the level of experience and leadership that Reynolds brought to the team, being arguably the most crucial member alongside Latrell Mitchell.
Reynolds proved his value when Mitchell was suspended following his infamous hit on Joey Manu just before the 2021 finals series. Reynolds played a vital role in keeping the Rabbitohs competitive, orchestrating their victory over Penrith early in the playoffs and narrowly missing out on defeating the Panthers again on Grand Final night.
Unfortunately, by that time, it was too late for the club to convince Reynolds to stay, as they had already suffered a significant setback months earlier during contract negotiations.
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