Jarome Luai has emphatically declared his commitment to the Wests Tigers, stating he has “no intention” of departing the club and expressing his desire to remain a Tiger for the long haul. This news will undoubtedly be a significant boost for the club’s dedicated fanbase, who are yearning to break a 15-season finals drought by 2026.
The Samoan international joined the Tigers from Penrith last season, signing a lucrative five-year contract. However, this deal includes a crucial clause that permits Luai to opt out at the conclusion of the current season, with a deadline of April 30, 2026, for this decision to be activated. Despite this contractual flexibility, Luai has made it clear that he intends to honour the full five years of his agreement and play a pivotal role in the Tigers’ anticipated resurgence under the guidance of coach Benji Marshall.
Marshall himself inked an extension over the summer, securing his tenure until the end of 2030, a move that Luai highlighted as a key factor in his own decision to join the club. “Benji is a big part of why I’m here and a big part of why other boys made the move over,” Luai commented. He added that there’s a considerable sense of relief and confidence within the playing group that the club is now heading in the right direction. “As players and as the team, we just need to go out there on the field and do our job,” he stressed.
Luai’s commitment is underscored by his leadership role. “I’ve no intention of (leaving), I’m captain and leader of this team and I think these young boys need me,” he asserted. He elaborated on his mindset, stating, “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.”
The playmaker admitted that the immense pressure and expectation placed upon him as the Tigers’ marquee recruit and new halfback were challenging to navigate in his initial season. Having departed Penrith, where he often played in the shadow of Nathan Cleary, Luai had previously humorously quipped about wanting to step out of the “Robin” role to be “Batman.”
For the upcoming season, Luai is set to shift to the five-eighth position, with Adam Doueihi expected to take on the role of the Tigers’ No. 7. Luai downplayed the significance of the jersey number, asserting that his role within the team remains largely unchanged. “At the end of the day, it’s just a number – I don’t think my role really changes in the team,” he explained.
He acknowledged the weight of expectation that came with his arrival. “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.” Reflecting on his debut season, Luai was candid about his struggles. “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 also expressed optimism about the development of his teammates, specifically naming winger Luke Laulilii as a player poised for a breakout season. The Wests Tigers will commence their 2024 campaign in round two with a home game at Leichhardt Oval on a Saturday, facing off against the North Queensland Cowboys.
Key Takeaways on Jarome Luai’s Commitment:
- Unwavering Intent: Luai has clearly stated he has “no intention” of leaving the Wests Tigers.
- Long-Term Vision: He desires to see out his full five-year contract and be a part of the club’s future success.
- Player-Coach Synergy: The presence and extension of coach Benji Marshall were significant factors in Luai’s decision.
- Leadership Role: Luai sees himself as a crucial leader for the developing Tigers squad.
- Personal Growth: He views his move to the Tigers as an opportunity for personal and professional development, acknowledging past challenges with pressure.
The Tigers’ faithful will be hoping that Luai’s renewed commitment and the leadership he brings will be the catalyst for a successful period for the club, potentially ending their long premiership drought and ushering in a new era of success. The team’s strategy will likely revolve around Luai’s creative playmaking from the five-eighth position, complemented by Doueihi’s control at halfback. The early performances of key players like Laulilii will also be closely watched as the team aims to build momentum throughout the season.
