Written by Megan Taylor, sports reporter covering international sports since 2020
Adam Doueihi will not play for the Wests Tigers against the Canberra Raiders on Saturday, July 25, after requesting time away from the club following a disagreement with coach Benji Marshall at training on Thursday.
The meeting centred on Adam Doueihi's role for the Round 21 match in Canberra. Reports said the 27-year-old expected to return to the halves but was told he could play at lock or come from the interchange bench.
The development comes during a busy Australian sports news week that has also featured major NBL signings for the Sydney Kings and South East Melbourne Phoenix.
Wests Tigers Confirm Adam Doueihi Absence
“Adam won’t be playing this weekend,” Wests Tigers chief executive Shaun Mielekamp told News Corp.
“Adam and Benji met this morning to discuss a plan for the weekend. Benji made a call on what’s best for the team but as a result Adam has asked for some time off and we agree to that.”
Adam Doueihi had been cleared at the National Rugby League judiciary after challenging a high-tackle charge, making him available for selection. He was originally named among the Wests Tigers reserves.
Reports described Adam Doueihi as highly frustrated by the proposed positional switch. There is no indication that he has requested a release from the final three years of his contract.
Javon Andrews Remains in Halves
The official Wests Tigers team list named Jarome Luai and 19-year-old debutant Javon Andrews in the halves. Alex Twal was selected at lock for the match at GIO Stadium.
Javon Andrews enters his debut after leading the New South Wales Cup with 23 try assists. The Wests Tigers now face the Canberra Raiders without Adam Doueihi as they seek to end a five-game losing run.