Benji Marshall ‘ants in one’s pants’ about the arrival of Jarome Luai to the Wests Tigers
The Wests Tigers have officially announced the acquisition of Jarome Luai, a star player from the Penrith Panthers, signing him to a five-year deal starting in the 2025 season. Despite being a three-time NRL Grand Final winner with the Panthers, Luai will complete the 2024 season with his current team before transitioning to the Tigers for the 2025 campaign. With 107 appearances since his NRL debut in 2018, Luai brings a wealth of experience to the Tigers. Additionally, he has represented Samoa in the last two World Cups and has participated in seven State of Origin matches for New South Wales.
Regarding the signing of Jarome Luai, Wests Tigers coach Benji Marshall expressed his excitement, stating, “We are thrilled to announce the acquisition of Jarome for the 2025 season on a five-year deal. His experience as a genuine Premiership-winning playmaker will be a valuable asset for our club and its future. We admire Jarome’s playing style, and, equally importantly, he is a fantastic person. We eagerly anticipate welcoming Jarome and his family to our club in 2025, but for now, our focus remains on the 2024 season.”
In response to Luai’s decision to transfer, the Penrith Panthers released a statement indicating that Luai had informed the club’s staff and players about his intention to depart at the conclusion of the 2024 campaign. The club waived the standard 10-day cooling-off period in acknowledgment of his decision.
The Penrith Panthers expressed disappointment at losing Jarome Luai, a key player, but emphasized their respect for his decision to join the Wests Tigers. Panthers’ chief executive Matt Cameron acknowledged the challenge posed by salary cap constraints stemming from the club’s recent success.
Cameron stated, “We recognize that the situation is further complicated by salary capacity due to the club’s recent success. Jarome is currently in the process of recovering from shoulder surgery conducted in October, and his rehabilitation for the upcoming season is our top priority.”
Despite Luai’s commitment to another NRL club for future seasons, the Panthers affirmed their anticipation of him remaining with the team for the 2024 season. This commitment is particularly crucial as the Panthers prepare for the World Club Challenge against the Wigan Warriors and aim for another premiership defense. The statement reflects the Panthers’ ongoing dedication to success despite the challenges presented by player transitions and salary cap considerations.
