The South Sydney Rabbitohs have officially cut ties with English halfback Lewis Dodd after one season with the club.
Dodd was signed on a three-year deal worth approximately $2 million, with the Rabbitohs seeing him as a long-term solution in the halves.
The club and Dodd have reportedly reached an agreement for his release, which is set to be a costly move for South Sydney, according to CODE Sports.
After months of speculation, the club confirmed a formal release covering the final two years of Dodd’s contract, including a six-figure settlement, allowing him to return to the English Super League.
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Dodd is expected to join Catalans on a 12-month deal, where he will partner Canterbury half Toby Sexton and effectively replace former Roosters premiership winner Luke Keary.
During his time at South Sydney, Dodd played just six NRL games and started only once in his preferred halfback role, lasting 68 minutes before being substituted in round 21 against Cronulla.
He spent the majority of the season in NSW Cup, with coach Wayne Bennett preferring other players in the halves, including Jack Wighton, Cody Walker, Jamie Humphreys, Jayden Sullivan, Latrell Mitchell, Jye Gray, and Ashton Ward.
Dodd’s departure also provides South Sydney with additional salary cap flexibility, potentially aiding in the pursuit of Gold Coast back-rower David Fifita.
The move aligns with other roster adjustments, including Manly forward Davvy Moale’s planned move from 2027, which the Rabbitohs and Sea Eagles are reportedly discussing fast-tracking.
Dodd showed tremendous promise in the English Super League, but his time at South Sydney will go down as one of the most disappointing and costly signings in the club’s recent history.
While his NRL stint did not go as hoped, returning to Europe gives Dodd the opportunity to rebuild his career and play a leading role at Catalans next season.
At just 23 years old and with five Super League seasons at St Helens already under his belt, there is little doubt the best of Lewis Dodd is yet to come, even if it will not be in Australia.