“Why Lachlan Ilias’ Move to the Dragons Feels Right and the Persistent Texts That Made It Happen”

Damien Cook wasted no time lobbying for Lachlan Ilias to join the Dragons as their new halfback, reaching out to coach Shane Flanagan less than an hour after Ben Hunt’s departure to the Broncos became official. Cook’s determination to fill the void left by Hunt highlighted his belief in Ilias, his former teammate at South Sydney, as the perfect candidate to take on the role. Flanagan admitted Cook’s persistence during the offseason was relentless, but it stemmed from Cook’s enthusiasm to help rebuild the Dragons and return them to success.

Cook also went out of his way to convince Ilias directly, bombarding him with calls and texts to promote the Dragons as the ideal place for the next phase of his career. Ilias, who debuted with South Sydney in 2021 and played four seasons there, was initially hesitant but ultimately agreed, citing the support of Cook and other former Rabbitohs players now at the Dragons, such as Jaydn Su’A and Hame Sele. Ilias shared that the transition felt natural, as he grew up as a Dragons fan, making the move both a professional and personal homecoming.

The decision to leave South Sydney wasn’t an easy one for Ilias, who had honest conversations with Wayne Bennett about his future. Bennett’s transparency about Ilias not being the Rabbitohs’ first-choice halfback helped the young player make the move. Ilias expressed gratitude to Flanagan for providing him the opportunity to lead the Dragons as their halfback, a role he is eager to take on after playing 53 games for Souths. While Ilias admitted to nerves about joining a new club, he is confident the fresh start will allow him to showcase his potential.

Despite his enthusiasm, Ilias faces challenges ahead, including recovering from a leg injury that sidelined him last year. He acknowledged the slow and sometimes frustrating rehabilitation process but expressed determination to return stronger. Encouraged by support from teammates and insights from his manager, Braith Anasta, who experienced a similar injury, Ilias feels optimistic about his recovery. The injury gave him time to reflect on his career, and he now feels ready to embrace the responsibilities that come with leading the Dragons.

The Dragons’ spine will see significant changes, with Ilias teaming up with Kyle Flanagan, who is equally excited about the new partnership. Flanagan, who has also faced criticism in his career, is eager to build chemistry with Ilias on and off the field. While Ilias won’t be fully integrated into training until closer to Christmas due to his rehabilitation, both players are confident they can establish a strong combination. Together, they aim to harness the strengths of their new spine members and propel the Dragons back into finals contention in 2025.