Depressed, overweight and hating rugby league, prison life could have broken Manase Fainu. On the day of his release on parole, the former NRL star opens up on how he intends to turn his life around.

Departing star Daly Cherry-Evans says he admired the way the Tricolours dealt with Sam Walker’s contract situation – but maintained his premiership-winning halves partner was right to put his own interests first.

It appears untenable for Sam Walker to remain at the Roosters after the club pulled its contract offer, but the Kangaroos star plans to report for pre-season training at Bondi Junction.

The Bears have opened talks with Matt Burton, while the Rabbitohs are open to the prospect of ageless playmaker Cody Walker playing on for two more years.