Marshall denies split rumors as Tigers release Luai early

Wests Tigers coach Benji Marshall has forcefully denied rumors of a fractured relationship with departing co-captain Jarome Luai, insisting the club's decision to release the star five-eighth a year early was a strategic move focused on long-term development. The Tigers confirmed on Saturday, July 11, 2026, that Luai would be released from the final year of his contract to pursue a deal for the 2027 season, ahead of his already-announced marquee move to the expansion Papua New Guinea Chiefs in 2028.

Marshall, speaking publicly for the first time since the announcement, categorically rejected widespread speculation that he and Luai had fallen out following the player's decision to join the Chiefs. He described media reports of a rift as fabricated and damaging. The fact people can make up rumours that we're having a relationship breakdown is absolutely bullshit, Marshall said. We're close. We've been speaking about it the whole time.

The coach explained that the decision resulted from several weeks of internal discussions, beginning four or five weeks ago, about the club's future. Marshall stated the priority is now on developing highly-rated young halves Javon Andrews and Latu...