Wakefield hooker Smoothy to join Perth
Wakefield Trinity have released hooker Tyson Smoothy from his contract on compassionate grounds, allowing him to join newly formed NRL side Perth Bears at the end of the current season. The 27-year-old Australian had signed a three-year deal with the Super League club for this campaign, but the move comes after head coach Daryl Powell revealed earlier this month that Smoothy would be departing at the end of 2026 to return home to family.
Smoothy has scored four tries in 21 appearances across all competitions this season, helping Wakefield to second place in Super League. Director of rugby Ste Mills praised his contribution and professionalism, saying the club supports his decision given his family circumstances and desire to return to Australia. He will join the Bears for their inaugural NRL season alongside Leeds Rhinos trio James McDonnell, Harry Newman and Mikolaj Oledzki.
- Tyson Smoothy released early from Wakefield contract on compassionate grounds
- He joins new NRL club Perth Bears from 2027 season
- Wakefield currently sit second in Super League
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Tyson Smoothy is an Australian rugby league player who has been playing for Wakefield Trinity in England's Super League. The club has agreed to release him from his contract early so he can return to Australia and join Perth Bears, a newly formed team in the NRL, which is Australia's top rugby league competition.
The move comes as a result of Smoothy's wish to be closer to his family. Wakefield has supported his decision despite having signed him to a three-year deal only this year, with the early release granted on what the club calls compassionate grounds. Players regularly move between England's Super League and Australia's NRL as the two competitions compete for talent and offer different levels of opportunity.
Perth Bears are beginning their inaugural NRL season, entering rugby league's top tier for the first time. Smoothy will be one of several established players joining the franchise, alongside three from Leeds Rhinos, another major English club.