Warriors demand player swap from clubs seeking to sign Origin star
Sydney Morning Herald
by Adrian Proszenko, Dan WalshFebruary 24, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
The New Zealand Warriors are seeking player compensation from clubs interested in signing star forward Mitch Barnett. Barnett is leaving the Warriors early due to family reasons, specifically his child's medical needs, but the club expects a "player or two" as part of any transfer deal. The Warriors have emphasized that a financial transfer fee won't be considered, as it doesn’t provide salary cap benefits. Clubs like the Brisbane Broncos and Parramatta Eels are already showing interest in Barnett, with his agent reporting initial inquiries.
The situation highlights the business side of rugby league player movements. While the Warriors understand Barnett’s need to return home, they’re prioritizing compensation through player swaps. This approach is common in sports leagues, where clubs negotiate deals using players instead of cash. The Warriors’ CEO, Cameron George, explained that each club might offer different alternatives for compensation, depending on their squad needs.
Barnett’s decision has generated significant attention, with fans and analysts speculating about its impact on the NRL. His release is particularly notable because it comes during a season where other star players, like Payne Haas of the Broncos, are also leaving their clubs. This wave of player movements could reshuffle team dynamics across the league, affecting both performance and fan engagement.
Ultimately, this situation underscores the delicate balance between personal reasons for athletes and the business operations of sports organizations. While Barnett’s family needs take priority, the Warriors’ demand for compensation reflects the professional side of the sport. Fans will be closely watching how these changes affect teams like the Broncos and Eels, who are now in the running to sign one of the NRL’s most sought-after players.
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Originally published on Sydney Morning Herald on 2/24/2026