Tristan Sailor has been a crucial player for the Brisbane Broncos in 2024, a consistent and reliable back up presence for Origin star Reece Walsh, who has missed significant time this season with injury.
Appearing in 10 games for Brisbane so far this year, Sailor has had multiple game-changing moments, including a 60-metre try against the Eels to spur an unlikely comeback and keep their finals dreams alive.
But despite being the team's starting fullback for the remainder of the season with Walsh ruled out, Sailor's time in the NRL will be coming to an end for now, with the son of former dual-code international Wendell Sailor set to head to the English Super League from 2025, joining the St. Helens Saints.
Speaking to the Courier Mail, Sailor explained that this move was caused both by considering the Broncos roster - Walsh is set to be Brisbane's star for the next decade - while also considering lifestyle factors.
"I’m super excited for [the move to St. Helens]," Sailor said.
"I sort of had that plan to go over there one day, it’s always been something I’ve wanted to do.
"I absolutely love the Broncos, but roster-wise I think the best thing for me was to go over there and do my thing.
"I’ve got a couple of good mates there, Adam Clune and Jai Field are loving it over there, so I’ll go live in Manchester, hang out with them and hopefully really enjoy my footy and enjoy living in another country."
But before he makes the move to England, there is still the matter of Brisbane's finals push, which Sailor is hoping to play a key part of.
"100 per cent, I think that (making the finals) is definitely our goal and for me, personally, I’d love to be able to help the boys do that," Sailor said.
"To know that we’re still a chance... if we win the last two games of the year and hope results fall our way, then I think we can be a real chance in the finals if we play like we did in that last 60 [minutes against Parramatta]."
The Broncos will take on the Dolphins in the second Battle of Brisbane for 2024 this Saturday, with the added twist that loser of the game will also be eliminated from finals contention.
