Milestones are rare in professional sport, and when they arrive, they deserve to be celebrated. For Daly Cherry-Evans, the veteran playmaker and captain of the Manly Sea Eagles, this week is one of those moments that calls for reflection, gratitude, and perhaps a little nostalgia. Cherry-Evans is set to notch his 350th NRL appearance, a remarkable achievement that cements his status among the elite few who have reached such a prestigious marker in the game’s modern era.
The milestone, however, is not just about the number. It’s a testament to over a decade of consistency, resilience, and unwavering dedication to the sport he has given his all to. From his debut season in 2011, when he helped steer Manly to a premiership title, to becoming a mainstay in the Queensland State of Origin side and representing Australia on the international stage, Cherry-Evans’ career has been nothing short of illustrious.
As he prepares for this landmark game, the 35-year-old halfback has made it clear that this week is about enjoying the moment. “It’s a milestone you don’t take for granted,” Cherry-Evans said earlier this week. “When you start your career, you dream of playing one game, then maybe ten, and before you know it, you’re chasing a hundred. To reach 350, it’s something really special, and I’m proud of the journey it represents.”
That journey has been built on more than just skill. Cherry-Evans has long been praised for his leadership, professionalism, and ability to guide younger teammates through the highs and lows of NRL life. His presence has been integral not only to Manly’s fortunes but also to the growth of players who have passed through the club during his tenure.
Saturday’s clash, where the milestone will be marked, promises to be a night of celebration. Fans, teammates, and former players alike are expected to pay tribute to a player whose contributions to the Sea Eagles extend far beyond the scoreboard. Yet, for Cherry-Evans, the celebrations will be short-lived. True to his competitive spirit, his focus will quickly turn back to what lies ahead.
“I’ll definitely take the time to soak it all in and enjoy the occasion with my family and teammates,” he said. “But at the end of the day, we’re in the middle of a season, and my job is to keep performing, to keep leading this team forward.”
Questions about his future have naturally followed in recent weeks as he edges closer to the twilight of his career. While some have speculated about retirement or a possible transition into coaching or mentoring roles, Cherry-Evans has kept his cards close to his chest. “I’ve still got the fire in me,” he said. “There’s a lot of talk about what comes next, but right now, my focus is on this season and doing my best for the club. The future will sort itself out when the time comes.”
For a player who has already etched his name into Manly’s storied history, the milestone is another chapter in a career defined by consistency, loyalty, and elite-level performance. Whether or not the end is near, one thing is certain: Daly Cherry-Evans has left an indelible mark on the game, and 350 games is a milestone worth celebrating.