‘No intention’: Luai makes call on Tigers future
George Clarke |
Jarome Luai has delivered his strongest commitment to Wests Tigers to date, claiming he has “no intention” of leaving and declaring: “I’m comfortable in these colours and I want to be here”.
In news that will buoy the club’s long-suffering fans who are desperate to end a 15-season finals drought in 2026, Luai was adamant he wants to be a Tigers player long term.
The Samoa international arrived at the Tigers from Penrith last season after signing a five-year deal to leave the Panthers.
The deal included a clause, which must be activated by April 30, 2026, that gives the playmaker the option to exit at the end of this season.
But in a strong statement of intent, Luai was adamant he wants to see out all five seasons of his contract and be part of the Tigers’ resurgence under coach Benji Marshall.
Marshall inked an extension until the end of 2030 over the summer.
“Benji is a big part of why I’m here and a big part of why other boys made the move over,” Luai said.
“There’s quite a bit of relief and confidence that the club’s going in the right direction and as players and as the team, we just need to go out there on the field and do our job.
“I’ve no intention of (leaving), I’m captain and leader of this team and I think these young boys need me.
“I’ve been good at shutting everyone else out and knowing what I want to do and I’m comfortable in these colours and I want to be here.”
Luai said he struggled to deal with the expectation of being the Tigers’ saviour after arriving from Penrith as the team’s key recruit and new halfback.
Luai had left the Panthers where he played second fiddle to Nathan Cleary, once quipping he wanted to be Batman after years of playing the role of Robin.
But the 29-year-old will revert to five-eighth this season, with Adam Doueihi set to play as the Tigers’ No.7.
“At the end of the day, it’s just a number – I don’t think my role really changes in the team,” Luai said.
“I was coming here with the price tag, the expectation, the pressure – the team needs me to be at my best I think that’s in the No.6 with an attacking mindset.
“I probably didn’t handle it as well as I would’ve liked but that’s why I’m here, bro, it’s why I made the move – it’s all about growth for me.”
Luai namechecked winger Luke Laulilii to have a breakout season for the Tigers, who open their campaign in round two with a Saturday game at Leichhardt Oval against North Queensland.
AAP
