‘Not set in stone’: Off-contract Kangaroos gun quizzed as rivals circle
Off-contract flyer Jack Bostock says it’s “not set in stone” that he will be leaving the Dolphins, as he prepares to speak with his manager about his 2028 options.
The boom outside back – one of many representative players who became free agents on Sunday – has been heavily linked with both the Dragons and Sharks.
Jack Bostock will meet with his management this week. Getty Images
After crossing for a second World Cup hat-trick in Australia’s 66-6 thumping of the Cook Islands in Townsville on Saturday night, and potentially pumping up his market value even further along the way, he was quizzed on his future.
“I spoke to the Dolphins a couple of weeks ago and said I wanted to see my options and what I could do,” Bostock told reporters in Townsville.
“It’s not set in stone I’m leaving. It’s a matter of going through the process. It’s hard to do while you’re in here because the task at hand is winning the World Cup.
“Once I can sort out a time with my manager, we’ll sit down during the week, or have a phone call, and start figuring out what we’re going to do.”
No less than 11 players in the Australian squad entered free agency on Sunday.
Among them are Sam Walker, Cameron Munster, Latrell Mitchell, Bradman Best and Harry Grant – with none guaranteed to remain at their current clubs.
“We can see how many players are coming off. It’s been a running joke in camp about who is going where and what’s going to happen,” Bostock said.
A move to St George Illawarra would see Bostock, a product of the Shellharbour Stingrays, return to his roots on the NSW south coast.
Kangaroos and Broncos fullback Reece Walsh floated the prospect of the NSW State of Origin rookie joining Brisbane.
He said the Broncos’ new recruitment chief and the man who lured Bostock to the Dolphins, Peter O’Sullivan, should get in his ear.
“What is he, 23?” Walsh asked.
“He’s hardworking, can play many positions, and you can see he’s still growing into his body. He’s an awesome talent who works really hard. He knows when to flick the switch and work hard at training, but he’s also a character off the field.
“It’s interesting to see all the (contract) yarns getting thrown around; obviously there have been jokes and a bit of chat here and there. I don’t think it’s hindered anyone’s training or connection or their presence in camp.”
Australia will face either Tonga or Samoa in the semi-finals at Allianz Stadium next Sunday night.
