Benji’s Bold Tigers Captaincy Decision: Balancing Stability and Flair

Wests Tigers coach Benji Marshall lauded the “passion and creativity” super signing Jarome Luai would add to the club’s leadership after naming the four-time premiership winner co-captain for his first season at the club.

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Luai, who moved to the Tigers on a big-money deal from Penrith, will join Api Koroisau, another former premiership winner at the Panthers, who has led the club for the past two seasons, having also been appointed captain in his first season in 2023.

“Api has been a phenomenal leader for this club over the past two years, and his respect within the team is second to none,” Marshall said.

“Adding Jarome’s passion and creativity to our leadership structure makes this partnership really exciting.

Jarome Luai and Api Koroisau have been named as Tigers co-captains.Source: FOX SPORTS

“Together, they bring a balance of stability and flair that will drive our team forward in 2025.”

Luai, who has had leadership experience at international level after being appointed captain of Samoa for their UK tour last year, is also now a senior member of the NSW Blues State of Origin team.

He has been regarded by some critics as a polarising figure having found himself the target of online attacks for some of his social media work during Origin.

But having moved to the Tigers to test himself, having forged an unbelievable partnership with superstar Penrith playmaker Nathan Cleary, Luai said it was an “honour” to be named captain of his new team.

“Being named captain of the Wests Tigers with Api is an honour I don’t take lightly,” Luai said.

“Api has set an incredible standard as a leader, and I’m excited to work alongside him again and contribute to building something special here.

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“I am grateful to the coaching staff for giving me this opportunity and I want to make my family, the team, our members and sponsors proud.”

Koroisau, who won three premierships with Luai at Penrith, said the growth in the Tigers since he joined made it exciting to push on as captain.

“It’s a privilege to captain this club, and to now share that role with Jarome is really exciting,” Koroisau said.

“Over the past two years, I’ve seen first hand the potential we have, and I’m confident we’re heading in the right direction.

“I’m looking forward to what we can achieve together as a team this season.”