When seasoned playmaker Daly Cherry-Evans joined the Sydney Roosters, it presented a significant juncture for emerging talent Hugo Savala. With Cherry-Evans, Sam Walker, and promising youngster Toby Rodwell all vying for halves positions in 2026, Savala could have reasonably anticipated increased competition for his preferred No. 6 jersey at Bondi Junction. This crowded landscape prompted another Roosters playmaker, Sandon Smith, to seek an early release to join the Newcastle Knights. However, Savala himself remained steadfast, choosing to embrace the challenge rather than seek an exit.
Savala’s Resolve Amidst Halves Logjam
Faced with the prospect of sharing the halves with a marquee signing like Cherry-Evans, Savala acknowledged a brief consideration of his future. “A little bit, but I always back myself,” he stated. “Footy’s a funny thing – you always just put your best foot forward because something might happen or pop up. I came in with the attitude every day to just do my best, and some opportunities came up, and I sort of took them.” This proactive mindset has proven prescient, particularly with an upcoming crucial fixture.
Seizing a Prime Opportunity Against Penrith
Sunday’s clash against premiership favourites Penrith at CommBank Stadium represents a significant chance for Savala to showcase his abilities. An ankle injury sidelining Sam Walker has created an unexpected opening, pairing Savala with Cherry-Evans in the halves. This marks only the third time this season that Savala has started in the halves, and the first since July, following a successful transition into the centres. Savala views this as a pivotal moment to perform.
“It’s a great opportunity to go out there and just be myself, I guess,” Savala commented. “We had a good week’s prep and the week before that, so I’m looking forward to it. Obviously opportunities come with everyone’s injuries and stuff like that. So it’s really disappointing [for Walker], but I’ve got to take this opportunity with both hands. I can’t wait to get out there Sunday.”
Developing Alongside a Legend
The dynamic between Savala and Cherry-Evans is particularly noteworthy. Savala, initially a player learning from the veteran, is now required to partner with him, with the long-term prospect of eventually succeeding him in the pivotal five-eighth role. “That’s obviously my preferred position,” Savala confirmed regarding the No. 6 jersey. “I love this club, and obviously that would be a goal of mine to wear that number for a long time. I’m not trying to look too far forward, either.” The effectiveness of this burgeoning halves combination could significantly influence the Roosters’ finals campaign.
Despite their limited time playing together in the halves – just two previous starts – Savala has gleaned invaluable insights from the former Manly captain. “Probably a lot of stuff outside of football as well, with just the person he is, and then the way he conducts himself on the field and at training,” Savala shared. “Just little parts to his game have been big for me. Probably the vocals, the communication, and how he gets the boys around the park is going to be really key for me.”
Contrasting Styles and Future Potential
Savala, standing at 194 centimetres and weighing 96 kilograms, offers a different profile to the dynamic Sam Walker. He brings significant defensive strength, a powerful right boot, and the ability to break tackles effectively. Cherry-Evans expressed his enthusiasm for Savala’s contribution, highlighting the unique strengths he brings to the team.
“We’re really looking forward to what Hugo is going to bring to the side,” Cherry-Evans remarked. “It’s going to be different to Sam. It’s really important to call out that we don’t need him to be Sam, we need Hugo to be Hugo… Hugo has got a very, very strong career ahead of him in the halves. I’m excited to play alongside of him.”
International Ambitions on the Horizon
Beyond his immediate club commitments, Savala’s season is set to extend into October, with his selection in England’s squad for the Rugby League World Cup. He joins teammates Victor Radley and Billy Smith in representing England. This international call-up holds deep personal significance for the 24-year-old.
“My mum was born in England, and so was my dad,” Savala explained. “My dad’s half-Scottish, half-English, and my mom’s half-English, half-Portuguese. My brother’s actually living over in the UK at the moment. I’ve got a lot of cousins and grandparents that are from there, and they’re very proud English people. So if I do get the opportunity to play, it’ll be an honour for me and my family.” Savala’s journey with the Roosters, from facing intense competition to seizing a crucial opportunity on the field and looking towards international representation, underscores his resilience and ambition.
