Veteran NRL prop Matt Lodge will not be joining the St. George Illawarra Dragons under a train-and-trial deal, contrary to earlier reports. It had been suggested that Lodge would participate in pre-season training with the Dragons on a short-term contract valued at $1,200 per week. However, Dragons coach Shane Flanagan addressed the speculation during an interview with the Big Sports Breakfast, categorically denying the claim.
“The story isn’t true,” Flanagan stated. “He hasn’t signed a train-and-trial contract, and it’s highly unlikely that he will. We spoke to Matt, but this is one of those situations that gained traction prematurely. We’ll move on.”
Flanagan revealed that while the club had considered Lodge as an option to strengthen their forward pack, the deal did not materialize. He added, “We’re still looking for another middle forward, but I’m confident in the squad we have for this season. We have 10 middles, though three are very young, so we’re exploring opportunities for added depth.”
Reports from the Sydney Morning Herald clarified that negotiations fell through because Lodge sought a top 30 contract, not the train-and-trial arrangement initially discussed. This marks the second time in recent months that Lodge has turned down an NRL offer. In November, he rejected a re-signing proposal from the Manly Sea Eagles, which he deemed unsatisfactory.
Despite these setbacks, Lodge remains a likely candidate to join an NRL team during the 2025 season. His availability could fill the void for clubs struggling with front-row depth. As the Dragons prepare for the upcoming season, they will rely on Francis Molo, Jack de Belin, and Hame Sele as their leading prop forwards heading into Round 1.
The Dragons’ focus remains on bolstering their squad while maintaining confidence in their current roster. Flanagan emphasized his satisfaction with the team’s overall composition but acknowledged the need for experienced reinforcements in the forward pack. Meanwhile, Lodge’s decision to hold out for better contract terms signals his belief in his value as a front-rower, potentially making him a sought-after addition later in the season.
As the 2025 NRL campaign approaches, the Dragons aim to field a competitive side under Flanagan’s leadership, with or without Lodge.