As the 2024 NRL season looms, the South Sydney Rabbitohs have been dealt a double blow with the departure of two promising outside backs, Ethan Ferguson and Josiah Karapani. These changes now pose challenges for the Rabbitohs, demanding them to adjust strategies and reinforce the team for the forthcoming battles on the rugby field.
Rising Star Finds New Home in Wingham Tigers
Ethan Ferguson, a relative of Latrell Mitchell and Shaquai Mitchell, has signed with the Group Three Rugby League club Wingham Tigers. The move comes after Ferguson took an indefinite break from rugby due to mental health concerns. Previously with the Newcastle Knights before joining the Rabbitohs, Ferguson’s departure was marked by a poignant social media statement highlighting the importance of mental health awareness, especially among men.
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Karapani’s Leap to Brisbane Broncos
Simultaneously, Josiah Karapani, a promising New Zealand player, has transferred to the Brisbane Broncos. Though the specifics of his contract are yet to be confirmed, Karapani’s move has stirred excitement in the rugby world. The young player had made his mark in the Jersey Flegg Cup and was included in the Rabbitohs’ Top 30 roster. Despite not having debuted in the NRL, Karapani’s impressive performance in the NSW Cup, including scoring seven tries and providing three assists, earmarked him as a player to watch.
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Adjusting to Changes
With the departure of Ferguson and Karapani, the Rabbitohs are left to navigate these changes in preparation for the upcoming season. Former teammate Campbell Graham and halfback Lachlan Ilias have both spoken highly of Karapani’s potential, indicating the gap that his departure leaves behind. As the team reshuffles, the focus now shifts to the remaining players and the management’s ability to turn these changes into opportunities for growth and triumph in the 2024 NRL season.
