Doueihi is a true Mr Fix-It. He had no problems filling in at centre this year, even though the club view Taylan May, Starford To’a and Heamasi Makasini – who will become eligible for NRL selection when he turns 18 this week – as their main options.
Jarome Luai and Latu Fainu are the long-term halves, but Doueihi is a first-class back-up option and loomed as the biggest threat in attack when asked to call the shots in the second half against Manly a few weeks ago.
Adam Doueihi has proved his versatility for the Tigers.Credit: Getty Images
The 26-year-old can even slot into fullback, where he played for Souths in the 2019 preliminary final, and the position he was originally signed to play when he first moved to the Tigers.
But lock forward is where Doueihi can benefit the Tigers most. His big body and ball-playing ability are two key attributes for the modern-day No.13.
Isaah Yeo and Jake Trbojevic have become first receivers and regularly feed their halves. Doueihi can do likewise with Luai and Fainu.
Loading
Doueihi is also a Balmain junior, a leader, loves the club, hates losing (which Tigers look more dejected after a defeat?) and deserves a chance to stick around for the overdue good times – which may finally be on the horizon after six years of coach sackings, player exits, wooden spoons and even Weber barbecue presentations.
The knock on Doueihi is that he has already ruptured his ACL three times. One more is likely to end his professional career. A highly spiritual man, Doueihi remains convinced his faith has allowed him to stay on the park.
The Tigers cut loose Lachie Galvin to join Canterbury earlier this season. His good mate Tallyn Da Silva followed him out the door, to Parramatta, not long after. Marshall and Richardson have since put all their energy into signing co-captain Api Koroisau to a new two-year extension.
Hopefully they don’t forget Doueihi.
NRL is Live and Free on Channel 9 & 9Now
Michael Chammas and Andrew “Joey” Johns dissect the upcoming NRL round, plus the latest footy news, results and analysis. Sign up for the Sin Bin newsletter.