Australian · Sydney, Australia · Born 7 December 1989Australian rugby league halfback and captain of Manly Sea Eagles and Queensland, known for his kicking game and leadership in State of Origin.
Born in Redcliffe, Queensland, on December 7, 1989, this future rugby league star grew up in a sporting family environment that nurtured his athletic development. He attended Redcliffe State High School before progressing through junior rugby league ranks, initially playing for the Redcliffe Dolphins in the Queensland Cup competition. His exceptional playmaking abilities and tactical awareness caught the attention of NRL scouts during his teenage years. Cherry-Evans made his NRL debut with the Manly Sea Eagles in 2011, quickly establishing himself as the club's primary halfback. His breakout season came in 2013 when he played a pivotal role in Manly's run to the NRL Grand Final. Throughout the 2010s, he became renowned for his precise kicking game, particularly his ability to execute clutch field goals and create attacking opportunities through his tactical boot. His consistent performances earned him multiple representative honors, including selection for Queensland in State of Origin and the Australian national team. The halfback's most significant achievement came in 2017 when he captained Australia to victory in the Rugby League World Cup, cementing his status among the game's elite players. He has represented Queensland in numerous State of Origin campaigns and accumulated multiple appearances for the Kangaroos. His longevity with Manly, spanning more than a decade, represents one of the longest single-club careers in modern NRL history. Cherry-Evans has consistently ranked among the competition's top playmakers, earning Dally M Medal votes across multiple seasons. His impact on rugby league extends beyond individual accolades through his role as a game manager and tactical orchestrator. Cherry-Evans represents the archetypal modern halfback, combining traditional playmaking skills with contemporary game management techniques. His ability to perform under pressure, particularly in crucial moments requiring field goals or game-controlling kicks, has influenced how the halfback position is valued in professional rugby league. He remains active as Manly's captain and continues to compete at the highest levels of the sport.
Leading Queensland to State of Origin series victories as captain
How They Played
Controlling halfback with exceptional kicking game, strong leadership and game management skills
Lasting Impact
One of the premier halfbacks of his generation, known for clutch performances in big matches
Career Honours
- NRL Premiership 2011 (Manly-Warringah Sea Eagles)
- NRL Premiership 2013 (Manly-Warringah Sea Eagles)
- State of Origin 2014 (Queensland Maroons)
- State of Origin 2015 (Queensland Maroons)
- State of Origin 2017 (Queensland Maroons)
- Rugby League World Cup 2017 (Australia Kangaroos)
- Dally M Medal 2014 (NRL Player of the Year)
- Dally M Medal 2023 (NRL Player of the Year)
- Wally Lewis Medal 2023 (State of Origin Player of the Series)
- NRL All Star selection multiple years
| Club | Period | Apps | Tries | Shirt |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Manly Sea Eagles | 2011–2024 | 294 | 6 | #7 |
 Australia | — | 19 | — | — |
Australian Athletes