DCE heir apparent to debut in farewell game

Sea Eagles fans will get their first glimpse at their long-term future after Manly named young half Joey Walsh to make his NRL debut.

Walsh, 19, was signed to be the heir to departing halfback Daly Cherry-Evans, who will play his final game for the Sea Eagles this week.

The Australian U18s rugby flyhalf and captain in 2023, Walsh is a local Manly junior, making the progression from Jersey Flegg to NSW Cup this season.

Walsh will come off the bench for the Sea Eagles in Cherry-Evans’ farewell game against the New Zealand Warriors.

Speaking at the Sea Eagles media day back in February, Walsh appreciated the opportunity to learn from one of Manly's greatest halves.

“I've grown up as a Manly fan, living a couple of minutes away, and it's funny now driving to work, same route I took driving to school for the last seven years,” Walsh told SEN 1170.

“Now, I'm hanging out with guys who are obviously a lot older than me, but it's been really great learning off people like Chez (Cherry-Evans) and Brooksy (Luke Brooks) who are very experienced in the game.

“It’s a pinch yourself moment (learning off them)... they're legends in my position of the game, being able to learn off them has been unreal.

“(Cherry-Evans) always talks about how he loves spending time with the boys, playing footy, maybe having a beer, but also having time for himself and his family.

“He said it's good to make sure you include them all, so you don't get burnt out.

“To have a career like he’s had, it's definitely something I look up to and want to do, just make sure you get a good balance right so you can continue playing for a long time.”

Now, Walsh will have an opportunity to play alongside Cherry-Evans at 4 Pines Park, with coach Anthony Seibold confirming Walsh will play the back end of the game.

Walsh has been strong in reserve grade in 2025, scoring seven tries and 16 try assists in his 15 games.

The Sea Eagles have signed Raiders’ halfback Jamal Fogarty for the next three seasons, meaning Walsh won’t jump straight into first grade in 2026.

Other team list news sees Cameron Murray and Jack Wighton return against the Roosters, the Raiders rest 10 players while the Storm and Bulldogs have opted to play close-to-full strength sides in the final round.