Jarome Luai-Ivan Cleary slanging match: Wests Tigers enter race for Panthers star
Benji Marshall could prove an influential player in Panthers star Jarome Luai’s contract negotiations as Penrith responds to the simmering tensions between their five-eighth and coach.
While the Tigers are not believed to have made an official approach as yet, the club is
determined to arm rookie coach Benji Marshall with a side capable of fighting for finals football.
The Tigers have signed veteran half Aiden Sezer for next season, St George Illawarra young gun Jayden Sullivan and teenage Manly playmaker Latu Fainu.
Marshall and Luai have a relationship that stretches back to 2021, when they were teammates and roommates in the Maori All Stars side.
At the time, Luai spoke about how he had grown up worshipping Marshall after falling in love with the Tigers star at the age of six while on a camping trip with his family to Patonga.
“I clearly remember that ’05 grand final and where I was when Benji did that flick pass – it is a memory that I’ll have for the rest of my life,” Luai said at the time.
Our camping neighbours happened to have a little portable TV, so we watched the game on it. I remember my mum got me a Tigers towel afterwards and I used it after every shower for the next five years – I just didn’t want to let go of it.
“I’ve been a fan of Benji ever since.”
Marshall will give the likes of Sullivan and Fainu, as well as emerging half Lachlan Galvin, every chance to show what they can do throughout the pre-season.
However, it is understood he hasn’t ruled out making a play for Luai as the Panthers star prepares to test the open market.