Jarome Luai has addressed his upcoming departure from the Wests Tigers and refuted claims of a fractured relationship with head coach Benji Marshall, speaking to the media for the first time since announcing his move to the Parramatta Eels for the 2027 season. Luai is also slated to join the PNG Chiefs in the NRL in 2028.
During a pre-match availability session ahead of the Wests Tigers' clash with the Bulldogs, Luai was asked to reflect on his tenure with the Tigers. The player responded with a pointed question to the reporter, asking for their reflection on his time at the club. "I think people are quick to point the finger and sometimes quick to forget," Luai stated. "But I've enjoyed my time, bro, and I think I've grown in a lot of ways that people haven't seen. We're not getting wooden spoons here anymore, so that's a tick in the box."
Luai was a cornerstone of the Tigers' rebuild strategy during his two-year stint, aiming to set new standards for the team. While the club improved from the bottom of the ladder during his time, reports had surfaced suggesting a breakdown in his relationship with coach Benji Marshall. Luai's father had also seemingly added fuel to these rumors via social media.
However, Luai directly dismissed these suggestions. "Nah, I think (Benji) explained it perfectly," Luai said. "I've got the utmost respect for Benji, my coach, for the way he holds himself and for how much he loves this club and how much he loves this team. He's been really transparent with me and we've been able to have tough conversations, and I think that's why I respect him so much. I'm at peace, bro. I understand where the decision came from. I'm here to support that decision and support my coach. We're not going to let a business decision get in the way of our relationship."
Luai admitted that the Tigers' decision to release him from his contract with 18 months remaining was initially a surprise. "It was a bit of a shock, I'll be honest with you," he said. "But as a player, our game at this level is a business. The faster the athlete is able to comprehend that, the better. I think it's human to feel an emotion and then slowly process it and understand why things happen. I'm a man just like you, bro. I'm not going to lie. I'm on board now. The thing I want to be is be my best for the remaining time I'm here and have some fun with the boys. I'm not holding any grudges, bro. My main thing now is just adapt, move on, and I want to enjoy my footy. That's when I'm at my best."