Jarome Luai has publicly committed to the Wests Tigers, indicating he will fulfill his five-year contract with the National Rugby League (NRL) club. This declaration comes as Luai aims to reshape the team’s future, despite having a clause in his contract that allows him to leave at the end of the 2024 season.
Luai, who is contracted until the end of 2029, has until the end of April 2024 to activate the final three years of his deal. He becomes eligible as a free agent this November, permitting rival clubs to approach him. Despite the Tigers being out of finals contention as they approach the last six weeks of the season, there have been signs of improvement under Luai’s leadership.
Positive Developments for the Tigers
The Wests Tigers have recorded their most wins in four seasons during Luai’s first year with the club. Recently, captain Apisai Koroisau extended his contract until 2028, a move that Luai acknowledged could influence his decision to stay. When asked about Koroisau’s re-signing, Luai confidently stated, “I’m staying. Don’t worry.”
Further pressed on the duration of his commitment, Luai playfully remarked, “For life,” reinforcing his desire to remain with the Tigers despite speculation surrounding his contract. He described himself as someone who does not shy away from challenges, declaring, “It’s not gone, but when things get hard, people are expecting you to change. I’m not that type of guy. I’m here for the long run and I’m here to change this club around.”
Luai’s commitment comes amidst scrutiny of head coach Benji Marshall, as the team prepares to face a former player, Lachlan Galvin, who left the Tigers last month to join the Canterbury Bulldogs.
Focus on the Upcoming Match
As the Tigers gear up for their match against the Bulldogs at CommBank Stadium this Sunday, Luai has expressed no interest in the narrative surrounding Galvin. He mentioned that he has not spoken to Galvin since his departure and is solely focused on his current teammates. Luai anticipates a mixed reception for Galvin from Tigers’ fans, saying, “I’ve been on the receiving end many times. For me, it’s fun. You know, that’s the game of rugby league.”
In their prior game, Galvin delivered an impressive performance, contributing to the Bulldogs’ 42-4 victory over Manly. Luai acknowledged the threat posed by Galvin and his fellow half, Matt Burton, emphasizing the need for the Tigers to limit their time with the ball. “That’s a talking point for us every week,” he said. “But in particular, Burto, their left edge, they’ve been scoring a lot of points.”
Luai’s confidence and commitment to the Tigers reflect his determination to lead the club towards a successful future, as both players and fans look ahead to the remaining matches of the season.
