St Helens coach responds to Josh Papali’I speculation amid overseas retention latest…
St Helens head coach Paul Wellens has notably refused to confirm that Josh Papali’i is joining the club, despite widespread speculation linking the Canberra Raiders legend to a move to Super League next season .
“I’ve read the same things but I can’t really comment too much on paper speculation,” he told reporters when asked about Papali’i .
He praised Papali’i’s career — citing his international & State of Origin credentials — but emphasized that’s no different from admiration shown for many top forwards .
Ricky Stuart (Papali’i’s coach at Canberra) confirmed the 33-year-old expressed a desire not to play against the Raiders, signalling he wants to finish his career in Super League .
Papali’i is reportedly in negotiations for a two‑year contract with St Helens starting in 2026 .
St Helens currently has five overseas players entering the final year of their deals (Mbye, Paasi, Sironen, Hurrell, plus James Bell who’s already confirmed a move). Wellens confirmed the club is actively reviewing each situation and working behind the scenes with players/managers — with decisions expected in the coming weeks and months .
He reiterated the club’s strategy: strengthen from within first, but if needed, supplement the squad externally to bolster depth .
No confirmation yet from St Helens, as Wellens sticks to cautious remarks on speculation.
But it’s clear Papali’i is actively arranging a move to the Super League, with Saints strongly linked as his destination.
St Helens is in the midst of a key overseas roster overhaul; Papali’i, if signed, would slot into depth strategy for 2026.
Let me know if you’d like a detailed breakdown of Saints’ overseas players, Papali’i’s Raiders career stats, or how this move could impact Super League dynamics!
