Jarome Luai breaks free from Nathan Cleary's shadow
- Jarome Luai signed a five-year, $6 million contract with the Wests Tigers.
- He aims to prove his abilities independently of Nathan Cleary.
- Luai is determined to help the Tigers improve and achieve playoff success.
In December 2024, Jarome Luai, a talented playmaker formerly with the Penrith Panthers, signed a significant five-year contract worth $6 million with the Wests Tigers. Luai, aged 27, chose to leave the Panthers after enjoying tremendous success, having been part of four successive premierships and five grand finals. Motivated to forge his own identity away from the shadow of superstar Nathan Cleary, Luai is enthusiastic about the new challenge laid out before him and is eager to showcase his skills in his own right. He asserts that he is ready to take on this responsibility and expects to play a crucial role in transforming the Tigers' fortunes in the upcoming seasons. As the 2025 NRL season approaches, Luai will begin this new chapter with Wests Tigers, where he is scheduled to feature alongside young prospect Lachlan Galvin as his halves partner. This partnership becomes a pivotal element in the Tigers' strategy to improve their performance, especially after facing challenges like consecutive wooden spoons. Luai's passion for the sport and commitment to growth are apparent, as he expresses determination to help the team reach the finals and ultimately become a premiership contender. Luai is also focused on proving himself doubting critics. Additionally, despite concerns raised by fans regarding the specific clauses in his contract that could allow him to enter the NRL market as a free agent after the end of the next season, Luai reassured them of his long-term commitment to the club. He emphasizes that every player has clauses in their contracts and believes that he is in Wests Tigers for the long haul. His goal is clear: to help the team overcome its current struggles and become a strong competitor in the league. The Tigers will kick off their 2025 campaign by hosting the Newcastle Knights on March 7, marking a significant moment for Luai, who will face his former team, the Penrith Panthers, for the first time on June 8 during round 14 of the season. Luai's journey with Wests Tigers represents not only a personal challenge for him but also a chance to redefine the club's future as they rebuild in the wake of previous struggles.