Jock Madden won’t be joining Hull FC next year – with the Australian half-back instead signing for Wests Tigers on a two-year deal. The Black and Whites held talks with the current Brisbane Broncos playmaker, as reported by Hull Live and confirmed by head coach John Cartwright.
But talks is all it mounted to, with the player opting to stay in the NRL, signing for the Sydney club once again after making his debut for the Tigers back in 2021. He signed for Brisbane ahead of 2023 and played for two seasons while Cartwright was an assistant coach at the club.
“It’s a great feeling to return to the Wests Tigers in 2026,” Madden said. “I am excited to work and play under Benji (Marshall’s) leadership and to be part of a team heading in the right direction.”
Meanwhile, Hull have ‘several’ options up their sleeve as they aim to fill their tenth and final quota spot for next season. Cartwright confirmed last week that the club has spoken to numerous players, with a new half-back desired to partner Aidan Sezer – allowing Cade Cust to fulfil the ‘14’ role he was originally signed for.
“We’ve spoken with a lot of players,” Cartwright said. “There are a few spaces left within our roster, and there are a lot of balls in the air.
“He (Jock) is definitely one that we have spoken to, but we have spoken to several players. When we get answers and replies back, then we’ll work out what is best for the club.”