Raiders’ Centre Exodus: Matthew Timoko’s Unexpected Departure and Potential New Homes
The 2026 NRL season has already thrown up its fair share of surprises, and one of the most significant has been the apparent sidelining of Canberra Raiders’ stalwart centre, Matthew Timoko, by head coach Ricky Stuart. While a pre-season foot injury initially hampered Timoko’s preparation for the current campaign, his opportunities have dwindled further due to the impressive form of his replacement, Simi Sasagi.
Sasagi, a utility player once lauded as one of the most promising young halves to emerge from the Newcastle Knights’ junior system, has become an indispensable asset for the Raiders in the nation’s capital. His consistent performances and remarkable versatility, often deployed in the second-row but equally adept at centre, have seen him seize the starting centre role with both hands. This shift in fortunes has reportedly led to the Raiders signalling to Timoko that he is free to explore his prospects elsewhere.
While the club doesn’t technically hold the contractual reins over Timoko, who is off-contract at the end of the season with a mutual option for 2027, the message is clear: a departure from Canberra appears almost inevitable for the 26-year-old. Timoko has been a consistent performer for the Raiders since his debut in 2020, amassing 112 games and representing New Zealand on nine occasions. His consistent output, even when perhaps undervalued, suggests he will be a highly sought-after commodity by other NRL clubs.
Here are some of the most likely destinations for the experienced centre:
Manly Sea Eagles
The Sea Eagles are facing a significant void in their centres with the impending departure of Reuben Garrick to the Sydney Roosters. As they navigate the post-Anthony Seibold era, Manly will need to fill this gap. Currently, Tolutau Koula is a key figure, and the club might consider shifting Tom Trbojevic into the centres or onto the wing, while Lehi Hopoate pushes for the fullback position. Jason Saab is also expected to retain his starting spot.
Despite a strong crop of emerging young talent, Manly could benefit from an NRL-ready centre. Timoko would be an ideal fit, offering a defensive upgrade on Garrick’s transition to the centres and losing little in attack. His signing would provide stability and experience to the Sea Eagles’ backline.
Newcastle Knights
The Knights are likely to have an opening in their centres at the conclusion of the 2026 season, with veteran Dane Gagai’s future uncertain. Gagai has expressed a desire to continue playing, but the club’s best interests might lie in looking towards the future.
This scenario presents an opportunity for Timoko to return to the Hunter region. The Knights are in need of attacking spark on the edges without breaking the bank, and Timoko fits this bill perfectly. His potential combination with halves Kalyn Ponga and Dylan Brown could be formidable, and the trio could even represent New Zealand together on the international stage.
Parramatta Eels
While perhaps a less obvious choice, the Eels could be a surprise contender for Timoko’s signature, particularly with the departure of Sean Russell to the Perth Bears. Russell has been a standout performer for Parramatta this season, especially in defence.
Timoko could effectively fill the void left by Russell, ensuring the Eels maintain their depth in the outside backs. The club has looked to Jordan Samrani and Brian Kelly to cover the centre position, but neither has consistently impressed. Timoko would represent a clear upgrade.
Sydney Roosters
The Roosters are unlikely to lose both of their starting centres in 2026, but a significant reshuffle of their backline is anticipated. Mark Nawaqanitawase is already confirmed to be heading back to rugby union, and Daniel Tupou may retire at the end of the season.
This dual departure would almost certainly see Billy Smith shift to the wing, with the Roosters searching for another winger. Crucially, it opens up a spot in the centres, and Timoko’s profile aligns perfectly with what the Roosters typically seek. A centre in his prime, strong in both attack and defence, could forge a dream combination with the Roosters’ burgeoning creative talents.
Perth Bears
As they gear up for their entry into the NRL in 2027, the Perth Bears have been linked with a multitude of off-contract players. Timoko, whose departure from Canberra seemed unlikely until recently, now falls into this category. The Bears are almost certain to make contact to explore the possibility of a signing.
Currently, Nick Meaney, Sean Russell, and Harry Newman are the likely centre options for the Bears, but their depth in the position is questionable. All these players can cover other positions in the back five, and the Bears’ overall depth needs bolstering. A marquee signing like Timoko could fundamentally alter their playing style at both ends of the park. The centre position is vital in the modern game, and Timoko is a proven performer.
Gold Coast Titans
The Titans’ already thin outside back stocks are set to be further depleted by the rumoured departure of Phillip Sami to the St George Illawarra Dragons. Sami, who has been a consistent fixture in the Titans’ run-on side for a decade, whether at centre or wing, will leave a significant gap.
While the Titans are reportedly interested in Tyrell Sloan and Loko Pasifiki Tonga from the Dragons, neither player directly addresses the need for centre depth. Max Feagai has performed admirably at centre for the Dolphins this season, but Timoko would be a guaranteed starter and a major coup for the Titans if he were to make the move to the Glitter Strip.
Melbourne Storm
The prospect of Matthew Timoko playing under the tutelage of Craig Bellamy is a daunting one. Timoko possesses significant potential, and Bellamy has an unparalleled track record of extracting the best from his players.
The Storm are in a unique financial position heading into 2027, having not yet fully invested the funds freed up by their 2026 departures. They are bracing for the loss of starting centre Nick Meaney and anticipate a backline reshuffling, with William Warbrick likely heading to the New Zealand Warriors. This could push Moses Leo to the wing and potentially see Jack Howarth move back into the second-row, creating a need for two new centres. It would come as no surprise if Timoko were one of those recruits.
