Payne Haas Gives South Sydney Firepower, But Spine Concerns Remain
Haas Set to Transform the Pack
South Sydney’s forward pack could become one of the most formidable in the NRL when Payne Haas arrives at the club next season.
The powerhouse prop brings enormous experience, physicality and consistency, potentially adding another major weapon to a Rabbitohs pack that already possesses plenty of talent.
However, while the forwards appear increasingly well-stocked, questions are emerging over whether South Sydney’s spine is strong enough to support a genuine premiership challenge.
Spine Becomes the Big Question
A dominant forward pack can provide a strong platform, but modern NRL teams still require quality players through the fullback, halves and hooker positions.
That is where South Sydney’s biggest concerns may lie.
Jai Gray and Matt Dufty are both talented footballers capable of producing important moments, but questions remain over whether they can consistently provide the game-changing influence required from key spine positions.
If the Rabbitohs want to take the next step, strengthening those positions could become a priority.
Walker’s Experience Meets Father Time
Cody Walker remains one of South Sydney’s most accomplished players, but age is inevitably becoming part of the conversation.
At 36, the veteran playmaker has accumulated enormous experience and remains capable of producing moments of brilliance. However, expecting him to carry the creative burden indefinitely could be risky.
The Rabbitohs will need to consider succession planning while Walker remains involved, particularly if the club wants to build a roster capable of competing at the highest level for several seasons.
Halfback Search Needed
Perhaps the most obvious issue is the lack of a proven halfback capable of controlling matches consistently.
The modern halfback must do much more than distribute the football. Game management, kicking, decision-making and the ability to create opportunities under pressure are crucial.
South Sydney may therefore need to explore the player market for an established organiser who can complement its powerful forward pack and provide greater direction.
Brandon Smith Question
Brandon Smith also faces scrutiny regarding his role at dummy half.
The former representative hooker has significant experience and plenty of attacking ability, but concerns over his service speed could become increasingly important in a team looking to play with greater tempo.
With fast and accurate distribution essential to building attacking momentum, South Sydney may need to assess whether Smith remains the right long-term option in the middle.
Bennett Faces a Big Recruitment Call
The arrival of Haas could give the Rabbitohs a formidable foundation, but roster construction cannot stop with the forward pack.
Coach Wayne Bennett may now need to turn his attention toward the spine and identify players capable of adding creativity, control and consistency.
Finding the right combination could dramatically change South Sydney’s prospects.
The Market Could Hold the Answer
The Rabbitohs have the opportunity to build a balanced squad around their powerful pack, but strengthening the spine may ultimately determine how far they can go.
With Haas joining the club, the forwards could become a major strength.
Now the question is whether South Sydney can find the spine players capable of turning that strength into premiership-winning football.