Ben Hunt is a name that has been well-known in the NRL for many years, but over the course of his career, there have been mixed opinions about his leadership and ability to perform consistently at the highest level. In 2025, Ben Hunt’s career took a new turn when he joined the Parramatta Eels on a three-year deal worth $2.6 million, following a somewhat tumultuous period with the St. George Illawarra Dragons. The signing has been met with both intrigue and expectation, as the Eels have been struggling to reach the upper echelons of the competition in recent seasons. However, there is growing belief that Hunt can offer the leadership qualities that the Eels have been missing, especially after the club’s struggles in recent years under coach Brad Arthur’s system.
One of the key elements of this move that has garnered attention is the leadership aspect. Over the past few years, there have been whispers that Ben Hunt was not the kind of captain or on-field leader that his team needed. Shane Flanagan, who was the coach of the Dragons during Hunt’s tenure at the club, notably suggested that Ben Hunt’s leadership was lacking. This was a controversial assessment, especially given Hunt’s skills and experience on the field. However, many believed that Hunt’s leadership style did not translate into a motivational or inspirational presence for his teammates.
Now, with a new challenge ahead of him at Parramatta, Hunt has the opportunity to step up and demonstrate that his leadership capabilities have evolved. Under the guidance of a new coaching staff and in a different environment, Hunt’s role will be crucial in shaping the future of the club. The leadership qualities that Shane Flanagan found wanting are something that the Eels have actively been looking for as they strive to develop a winning culture.
When Hunt signed with the Eels, there was an immediate sense of hope that he would bring a new dynamic to the club. The Eels, though a talented team, have often been criticized for their inconsistency and lack of direction in high-pressure situations. Much of this has been attributed to a lack of on-field leadership. In that respect, Hunt’s arrival represents an attempt to fill that gap and bring structure and focus to the side.
While Ben Hunt has always been known for his skill set—especially his kicking game, his ability to manage the tempo of a match, and his solid defense—it’s his leadership that the Eels will be banking on most. Leadership is often more than just making the right decisions on the field; it’s about motivating players around you, setting an example, and showing composure when the game is on the line. This is where Hunt has the opportunity to showcase his true worth to Parramatta.
What’s evident already, even early in his tenure at the club, is that Hunt is not shying away from taking on the leadership mantle. Whether it’s through his communication on the field, his approach to training, or simply by being a calm and composed presence in tough moments, Hunt has shown that he’s willing to step up and guide the team. His experience as an NRL veteran is something the Eels can lean on, as he has seen it all in the league, from finals series to rebuilding efforts, and has learned how to navigate the complexities of the competition.
This change of scenery and his interaction with the players around him also seem to have brought out a different side to Hunt. His leadership style seems to be one that builds relationships with teammates, listens to their concerns, and leads by example. Unlike some leaders who prefer to dictate terms, Hunt appears to be the kind of player who understands the importance of empathy and building rapport with his teammates. This softer, more approachable leadership style could be just what Parramatta needs to strengthen their squad dynamic.
For a club like Parramatta, having someone with the ability to inspire and challenge players to meet their potential is crucial. Many of the Eels’ players are young and talented, but they have struggled to consistently perform at a high level in crucial moments. Hunt can be the kind of player to not only perform in big games but also instill a sense of urgency in others when it matters most. His presence could push the likes of Mitchell Moses, Clint Gutherson, and Junior Paulo to elevate their games as well, providing the team with a more well-rounded leadership structure.
Furthermore, Hunt’s versatility could play a major role in his leadership. While he is primarily known as a halfback, his ability to adapt and contribute across different positions could make him a valuable asset on the field. This adaptability will also give him more credibility as a leader, as players are likely to respect his willingness to do whatever it takes to help the team succeed, whether that’s guiding the team through an attacking set or stepping up in defense.
As the Eels look to break free from the mid-table mediocrity that has plagued them for several seasons, having a player with Hunt’s experience and leadership could be the catalyst for change. He’s been through the highs and lows of the game, from the heartbreak of close losses to the jubilation of representative selections, and now he has a chance to bring that knowledge and perspective to a new club. His leadership could give the Eels the edge they need in clutch situations, whether that be in finals contention or in key matches during the regular season.
Ultimately, this deal represents an opportunity for Ben Hunt to prove that he is capable of leading a team to greater success, something that has eluded him at times during his career. Parramatta, with its talented squad, now has the chance to finally get the leadership it has been craving. The deal worth $2.6 million is a significant investment, but it’s one that could pay off if Hunt continues to demonstrate the qualities that Flanagan may have thought were lacking before. If he can show he has what it takes to lead by example, Parramatta could very well be a team to watch in the coming years.
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