The Mole: Certain Tigers Insiders ‘Unfazed’ by Jarome Luai’s $1.2 Million Move to Major Chiefs Contract

The Tigers organisation should be on alert as their star player, Jarome Luai, recently ventured to Papua New Guinea to discuss lucrative, tax-free contracts with the new Chiefs franchise set to commence in 2028.

However, some factions within the club appear unfazed by the potential loss of Luai, who commands a hefty $1.2 million annual contract but is expected to depart after the 2027 season to join PNG.

By the time the Chiefs take the field, the former Panthers title-holder will be 31, a milestone that some might deem beyond a player’s peak. Nevertheless, many playmakers continue to perform admirably into their 30s.

Since Luai’s arrival at the Tigers, the club has seen impressive contributions from former utility back Adam Doueihi in the halves, Jock Madden successfully returned from the Broncos, and Latu Fainu steadily honing his skills.

This leaves the Tigers well-equipped in the halves, complemented by several promising juniors. Some insiders argue that Luai’s substantial salary might be more wisely invested in other areas.

FORMER ORIGIN PROP FACING MEDICAL RETIREMENT

Ex-Blues State of Origin forward Daniel Saifiti is currently battling to salvage his career as a severe shoulder injury threatens his future in the sport.

The 29-year-old powerhouse might face medical retirement if his shoulder woes do not resolve.

The Fiji international has been grappling with this injury since relocating to Queensland last year, having managed to play just eight matches for the Dolphins over the past 18 months following his departure from the Knights.

After undergoing shoulder surgery late last year, he had hoped to return to the field at the beginning of this season.

Unfortunately, his condition remains unresolved, leaving him with limited arm mobility and incapable of engaging in heavy contact activities.

Doctors are contemplating a second surgical intervention but are uncertain whether it would resolve the issue.

“It’s disheartening, as Daniel is a brilliant player and a terrific person,” a Dolphins source shared with Wide World of Sports.

Catch the 2026 NRL season live and free on Nine and 9Now.

“He still has several options, and we will assist him in any way possible—we just need to wait and see.”

With nearly 200 games under his belt for the Knights and Dolphins spanning the past 11 seasons, along with seven Origins for New South Wales, the wear and tear from these tough encounters has evidently taken a toll.

PANTHERS SIGN TEENAGE TALENT

The Panthers have secured another promising young talent, signing 15-year-old second-rower Jayden Xerri.

A product of the St Mary’s club, he has made a notable impact in a brief period thanks to his powerful running and substantial work ethic.

With many of their top-tier players departing to rival clubs recently, the Panthers are focusing on nurturing talent from within, tapping into the world’s largest junior league to scout for potential stars.

Xerri, who is not thought to be related to Bulldog Bronson, has excelled in junior competitions and is certainly one to watch for the future.

PUSH TO OVERTURN 20-YEAR BAN

Bush footy player Matt Nean has received unexpected backing in his quest to overturn a 20-year suspension.

Nean has already completed nine years of his ban following allegations of manhandling the referee during the 2016 Group 4 grand final in Tamworth, even though footage of the incident suggests he barely made contact as they crossed paths.

This year, players across the Group 4 league went on strike in solidarity with Nean, and the Group chairman has also voiced his concerns regarding the severity of the lengthy suspension.

In a personal statement, Pat Crowe expressed his deep concerns regarding how the matter was handled, highlighting it as an injustice for the former Tamworth player.

“I find it hard to accept, and I believe we must address this unfairness,” said Mr Crowe.

After reviewing the evidence, engaging in direct conversations with those implicated, and considering similar cases, he could not reconcile the harshness of the penalty faced by Nean with the particulars of his situation.

“It’s beyond my understanding. I have no clue. Is there something missing? Are there other influences at work?”