Jarome Luai’s recent journey to Papua New Guinea has sparked a “public circus” that could potentially “unsettle” the high-flying Wests Tigers as they pursue the premiership, according to Billy Slater.
Reports emerged on Sunday afternoon regarding Luai, co-captain of the Tigers, visiting PNG to investigate the possibility of signing with the Chiefs, set to become the NRL’s 19th team in 2028.
Luai has a deadline of April 30 to exercise his option to stay with the Tigers for the upcoming season. While he is likely to choose this option, he must also commit to the PNG deal for 2028 if he wishes to make the most of his free agency.
The Tigers, who have not clinched a premiership since 2005 and last appeared in finals football in 2011, have been in tremendous form under coach Benji Marshall this season.
After round eight, the joint venture currently sits in third place on the ladder, boasting five wins and two losses.
Michael Chammas (left), PNG Chiefs’ general manager of football, with star player Jarome Luai (right) during his weekend in PNG. Post-Courier
Slater acknowledged Luai’s interest in the Chiefs but advised caution.
“I see no issue with it. Given the lure of tax-free income, players could essentially double their pay. I can understand the attraction of considering a move to Papua New Guinea,” he commented on Nine’s The Billy Slater Podcast.
“Starting up a new franchise presents a unique opportunity to create success in Papua New Guinea, which would be an experience like no other. The backing from the local community is going to be extraordinary and this may appeal to some players.
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“However, one must be wary as this could disturb the harmony at the Tigers, especially since Jarome Luai is their captain. The potential unrest could jeopardise the fantastic chemistry and unity within the club as they appear to be building something special.
“It’s important to recognise that this is a business, and I understand players wanting to secure their futures and care for their families while exploring options. However, this will generate a public spectacle until he makes his decision.”
Slater warned that this public attention poses a risk of raising “question marks” around the Tigers’ setup.
“It might not be an issue, but there is always that risk attached to such discussions and the public’s awareness of the situation.”
A blurred image of Luai in PNG began circulating online on Sunday afternoon.
The NRL would not approve a Chiefs contract for him that offers less than the $1.2 million he currently earns at the Tigers.
Danny Weidler, a journalist for 9News and The Sydney Morning Herald, who was the first to report on Luai’s visit, revealed that he would need to be compensated around $2.2 million if playing for a club subjected to income tax to achieve a similar after-tax income as what the Chiefs would offer.
The Tigers triumphed over the Raiders 33-14 at Leichhardt Oval last Thursday night with Luai, playing as the team’s five-eighth, delivering an outstanding performance, including two line break assists and setting up a try.
He has been exceptional for the Tigers in the 18 months since transferring from the Panthers, where he clinched four consecutive premierships from 2021 to 2024.
Slater emphasised the necessity for Luai to communicate openly with his Tigers teammates regarding his interest in PNG.
Jarome Luai showcasing his skills against the Raiders last Thursday night. Getty
“I wouldn’t be surprised if Jarome Luai addresses the team and says, ‘This is where I stand – I’m fully committed here for now, but I’m also exploring options for my family’s future,’” Slater suggested.
The Perth Bears are set to be the NRL’s 18th team in 2027, followed by the Chiefs’ entry in 2028.
“I’m unsure if Luai will leave the Tigers,” Slater added. “He has endured challenging years, but now that the club is showing growth, he has been a key player in that development. He may choose to stay.
“We haven’t heard directly from Jarome Luai yet, but it’s clear he’s up in PNG for a reason – to consider the possibilities.
“The Tigers are building momentum currently, and there’s a solid chance they could compete for the premiership this year, so it’s vital he doesn’t disrupt that progress.”
The Tigers are set to face the Sharks at Ocean Protect Stadium this Sunday afternoon.
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