Written by Megan Taylor, sports reporter covering international sports since 2020
Jarome Luai has addressed his early Wests Tigers release for the first time, speaking at a club media appearance on Thursday after his move to the Parramatta Eels for the 2027 National Rugby League season was confirmed.
The Wests Tigers agreed to release their captain from the final year of his contract following talks with Jarome Luai and his management. The Parramatta Eels officially confirmed his 2027 signing before he joins the Papua New Guinea Chiefs in 2028.
Player movement remains a major talking point, with Zac Lomax rejecting the Melbourne Storm as Papua New Guinea Chiefs talks advance.
Luai accepts surprise decision
“I’m not here to justify anything or explain myself on what’s happened up until this point,” Luai declared before taking questions.
“I’m just here to show support towards the club and the decision they’ve made and show support to my teammates and and coach as well.”
Jarome Luai admitted the early release caught him off guard, but said he had accepted the business side of professional rugby league.
“It was a bit of a shock, I’ll be honest with you,” he said. “It did take a bit of time to process, but we’re all on board now.”
Young halves offered a clearer path
Coach Benji Marshall’s decision allows the Wests Tigers to provide more playing time for their emerging halves. Jarome Luai said he did not want his remaining contract to block another player’s progress.
“The last thing I wanted to be was a roadblock for another man’s success, so I am fully supportive of the club,” he said.
“I’m at peace, bro. I’m at peace.”
Jarome Luai will remain with the Wests Tigers for the rest of 2026 as the club tries to revive its finals hopes. Eight defeats in 10 matches have dropped the team from third to 13th, three wins outside the top eight.
The Wests Tigers face the Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs in Round 20 on Saturday night.
