The Wests Tigers have been urged to consider dropping Jarome Luai as their disappointing season continues to unravel, with the club winning just two of its past 11 matches.
Having scored only 22 points in their past four matches, the pressure continues to intensify on Luai, whose influence on the side’s attack has come under increasing scrutiny.
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This comes a week after the playmaker confirmed that he will depart the Tigers at the season’s end to link up with the Parramatta Eels before joining the PNG Chiefs for 2028.
Speaking on NRL 360, CODE Sports reporter Dean Ritchie question whether the Tigers should drop someone who no longer appears to be a part of their long-term plans.
“I think it’s certainly to be considered,” Ritchie said.
“Let’s peel it right back. Jarome does not want to be at the Wests Tigers and then the Wests Tigers didn’t want Jarome there at the club so they’ve made their bed.
“In the last four weeks, the Tigers have scored 22 points.
“That’s pedestrian at best, so if that man on the screen [Luai] is there to ignite the attack it’s not working.
“He doesn’t want to be there. They don’t want him to be there (and) they’ve got options.
“If the club wanted to move forward by not signing him. Let’s move forward now because tomorrow is today at Concord.”
SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA – JULY 18: Jarome Luai of the Tigers looks on during the round 20 NRL match between Canterbury Bulldogs and Wests Tigers at Accor Stadium, on July 18, 2026, in Sydney, Australia. (Photo by Matt King/Getty Images)Source: Getty Images
Co-host Braith Anasta then asked if Luai should be given the change to see out the season.
“You don’t think he deserves to see out the season?,” Anasta proposed.
However, Ritchie doubled down on his stance stating that the Tigers and coach Benji Marshall shouldn’t feel obligated to continue selection a player who will depart.
“I don’t think anyone’s got a God-given right. He wanted to walk out of the club,” Ritchie continued.
“It’s already going down the you-know-what. They’ve won two from eleven.
“I’m saying not this week but in coming weeks they should perhaps (do it). They should look at demoting him, I think that’s fair.”
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Meanwhile, fellow CODE Sports reporter Brent Read didn’t agree with his colleagues views.
Read suggested that dropping the four-time premiership winner would effectively end their finals hopes.
“No, not yet…they’re still technically in finals contention. If you do that, you’re basically throwing your hands in the air and saying our season’s over,” Read said.
“They might not have Douehi or Fainu this week. Who are you going to play in the halves? Javon Andrews and Jock Madden.”