“A VERY BAD DECISION”: FORMER PLAYER SLAMS KNIGHTS OVER FRIZELL AND GAGAI DEPARTURES
The Newcastle Knights have confirmed that key senior players Tyson Frizell and Dane Gagai will not be offered contract extensions, with both set to depart the club at the end of the 2026 NRL season. The unexpected decision has drawn sharp criticism from a former Knights player, who labelled the move to allow both experienced stars to leave simultaneously as “a very bad decision” that risks destabilizing the team’s emerging core.
Frizell and Gagai are both out of contract at season’s end, and the club has opted not to extend their tenures, despite their status as leaders and consistent performers in the Newcastle lineup. The news has sent ripples through the Knights fan base, with many expressing concern about losing two of the team’s most influential figures in one hit.
Tyson Frizell has been a cornerstone of the Knights forward pack since joining the club, earning the prestigious 2022 Danny Buderus Medal as Player of the Year – recognition of his outstanding contribution on and off the field. A tough and reliable forward, he reached his 100th game milestone for Newcastle last season and has served as a vital captaincy presence, guiding younger players through the rigours of professional rugby league. His consistency and leadership have been instrumental in shaping the team’s competitive edge during a period of transition.
Dane Gagai’s legacy at the Knights runs even deeper, with the centre completing two distinguished stints at the club (2012-2017 and 2022-present). A multiple Danny Buderus Medal winner, he claimed the award in 2016 during a challenging season for the team, before repeating the feat in 2024 with a clean sweep of major honours – taking home Player of the Year, Gladiator Award, and Players’ Player recognition. Granted Life Membership in 2023, Gagai has scored 48 tries in over 200 games for Newcastle, establishing himself as a fan favourite and one of the most reliable competitive forces in the NRL. His experience and ability to perform under pressure have made him a critical asset in both attack and defence.
A former Knights player, who requested anonymity, was outspoken in his criticism of the decision. “To let two players of this caliber and leadership quality leave at the same time is a very bad decision,” he said. “The team needs their experience to guide the younger guys coming through – you can’t replace that kind of knowledge and presence overnight. It takes years to build that culture, and this move risks undoing a lot of the progress that’s been made.”
The Knights have yet to elaborate on their reasoning behind the decision, though sources suggest the move aligns with the club’s long-term strategy to refresh the roster and create opportunities for emerging talent. However, questions remain about how the team will fill the void left by Frizell and Gagai, with both players expected to attract significant interest from rival clubs as they enter the final year of their contracts.
As the 2026 season approaches, all eyes will be on how Newcastle manages the transition, with the departing pair determined to finish their Knights careers on a high note while the club faces the challenge of maintaining momentum without two of its most respected leaders.
