Newly recruited Dragons halfback Lachlan Ilias has shared a heartfelt story about Wayne Bennett‘s unexpected support during his rapid transition from South Sydney to St. George Illawarra.
The young playmaker described his whirlwind 48-hour journey, which started with him training as part of Souths’ squad on Monday. By Wednesday, Ilias found himself carpooling to Wollongong with his new teammates to begin his next chapter at the Dragons.
Ilias credited Bennett, one of rugby league’s most respected figures, for a classy gesture that helped ease the move. While details of the gesture weren’t disclosed, Ilias expressed his gratitude for the legendary coach’s understanding and encouragement during such a significant moment in his career.
Now with the Dragons, Ilias is set to take on a key leadership role in the halves, offering him an opportunity to grow and make his mark as the team looks to rebuild under coach Shane Flanagan. The rapid nature of the move highlights the dynamic environment of professional rugby league, where opportunities can arise unexpectedly.
Ilias’ composure and excitement about his new challenge reflect his readiness to embrace the pressure and responsibility that comes with steering the Dragons’ attack.
Lachlan Ilias, the new St. George Illawarra recruit, has spoken candidly about his move from the South Sydney Rabbitohs to the Dragons, expressing gratitude for his time at Souths while embracing the fresh challenge ahead.
Released from the final two years of his Rabbitohs contract, Ilias has signed a two-year deal with the Dragons starting in 2025. Reflecting on the transition in an interview with Code Sports, the 23-year-old halfback said he harbors no resentment about leaving Souths and is eager to step into his new role as a key playmaker for St. George Illawarra.
“They don’t muck around,” Ilias said of the swift move. “It moved all pretty quickly, but … I am super appreciative of everything I did at Souths. I don’t think I could have started at a better club.
“Bit of a rollercoaster – had some great times and not-so-great times. I wouldn’t change anything. I loved every second there, but that time has come to an end. I am looking forward to the next journey.”
With a reputation for his composed game management and strong defensive work, Ilias will be tasked with leading the Dragons’ attack as they rebuild under Shane Flanagan. The move offers Ilias an opportunity to step into a leadership role and establish himself as one of the NRL’s premier halfbacks.
His appreciation for Souths and excitement for the future demonstrate a level-headed approach, setting a strong foundation for his next chapter in Wollongong.
Ilias originally wanted to stay and prove himself to master coach Wayne Bennett, who saw him as a bench utility and dummyhalf option, but the chance to play his preferred position at the Dragons was too good to ignore.
Ilias revealed Bennett was a sounding board during his contract call and believes he deserves to be playing first grade in the NRL.
“I spoke to Wayne through the whole process,” Ilias said.
“I wanted to see where I stood at Souths. He was really honest and I appreciated that. I kept him updated with the Dragons showing interest.
“When I signed, I sent him a message as well. He supported my decision and said I deserve to play first grade – and that he looks forward to seeing my career.
“I was really impressed that he said that. He was supportive the whole time. Obviously very grateful for everything at Souths – they gave me the opportunity.”
The 24-year-old comes to the Dragons with 10 tries in 53 NRL games of experience and has also played three Tests for Greece at the 2022 World Cup.
Ilias revealed he was there the last time the Dragons lifted the trophy in 2010, when ironically Bennett was the coach of St George Illawarra.
“I grew up in Five Dock and my soccer team was called the Five Dock Dragons,” Ilias said.
“I actually went to the 2010 grand final when they won. Now Dean Young is a coach of mine now. It is a bit of a full circle moment.”
Dragons coach Shane Flanagan is excited to work with Ilias and believes his skill set will compliment the players they have, including former Souths teammate Damien Cook.
“It’s fantastic to have Lachlan join us at the Dragons,” Flanagan said.
“He is coming into the best years of his career. His skill set complements our current squad and he joins the exciting group of players we have recruited ahead of the 2025 season.”
Lachlan Ilias is on the road to recovery from a broken leg suffered early last season while playing in the NSW Cup after being dropped from South Sydney’s first-grade squad. St. George Illawarra Dragons coach Shane Flanagan, however, has expressed confidence that the young halfback will be ready for the 2025 pre-season trials.
“He is progressing well through his rehab and he will be ready to go for the trials,” Flanagan stated. “Lachlan joins a squad that is working hard and are committed to an improved 2025. We can’t wait for him to rip in with us.”
Ilias’ arrival coincides with a major shake-up in the Dragons’ spine following the departure of veteran playmaker Ben Hunt. Ilias is set to partner Kyle Flanagan in the halves, while Damien Cook will handle hooker duties and Clint Gutherson takes over at fullback. This revamped spine aims to bring fresh dynamism to the Dragons as they strive to end their finals drought.
The challenge of replacing Hunt’s league-leading 34 try assists from the previous season will be significant, requiring Ilias and Flanagan to share the playmaking load and establish cohesion quickly. After finishing 11th last year, the Dragons are looking for a turnaround in fortunes, with Flanagan’s leadership and the team’s renewed energy pointing toward a potential resurgence in 2025.
Ilias’ recovery and return to form will be crucial for the Dragons’ hopes as they build around a new-look core.
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