Benji Marshall has continued his Tigers rebuild by poaching veteran Warriors forward Bunty Afoa ahead of the 2026 NRL season.
The versatile Afoa can cover prop and back row and is a hard-nosed defender and excellent ball runner that can provide the Tigers with depth in the forwards.
The 29-year-old scored eight tries in 145 NRL games for the Warriors since his debut in 2016 and has also played eight Tests for his native Samoa.
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“The Wests Tigers are pleased to announce the signing of experienced prop, Bunty Afoa for the 2026 NRL season,” the club said in a statement.
Afoa played just seven games for the Warriors last season, but helped lead the reserve grade team to the Knock On Effect NSW Cup Premiership and NRL State Championship titles.
Afoa was excited to continue his NRL career under Marshall at the Tigers.
“I’m excited about the chance to come into a new environment and take the opportunity the Tigers have given me,” Afoa said.
“In seeing what’s been happening at the club and speaking with Benji, it’s an exciting time to be involved and I’m looking forward to playing my part next season.
“It’ll be great to get around the group and get to know the boys for pre-season. I can’t wait to get started.”
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Bunty Afoa of the Warriors against the Sharks during the Round 18 NRL match between the New Zealand Warriors and the Cronulla Sharks at Westpac Stadium in Wellington, New Zealand, Friday, July 19, 2019. (AAP Image/Ross Setford) NO ARCHIVING, EDITORIAL USE ONLYSource: AAP
Tigers coach Marshall was excited to work with Afoa and believes he can be a crucial veteran presence on and off the field for his young squad.
“Excited to have Bunty joining us for 2026. He brings experience and qualities that will really benefit our squad,” Marshall said.
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“He’s got a great character and is widely respected around the league, not just for the way he plays but how he carries himself on and off the field, which is really important for anyone we bring to the club.
“We’re looking forward to welcoming Bunty and his family to the Tigers in 2026.”