LeagueNews.co | Cooper McEnroe
In a shock move that could rock the world of Rugby League, rumors are swirling that Balmain - one part of the mighty Wests Tigers - is considering pulling the plug on their joint venture with the Western Suburbs Magpies.
According to reports from the Sydney Morning Herald, the Balmain faction of the partnership has grown disillusioned with the Magpies, who currently hold the reins of the struggling club.
The Tigers, once basking in the glory of their 2005 premiership win, have fallen on hard times in recent years.
With Benji Marshall at the helm for his debut season as coach, the team has gone through a revolving door of coaches over the past three seasons.
Facing the possibility of claiming the dreaded wooden spoon this year, the Tigers must secure a victory against the Parramatta Eels in their final match to avoid the ignominy.
Currently, the Holman Barnes Group, largely controlled by the Western Suburbs Magpies, holds 90% ownership of the club, leaving Balmain with just a ten percent stake in the team.
Could Balmain be gearing up for a game-changing move that will shake up the NRL landscape? Only time will tell.
But one thing's for sure, the Tigers are in for a bumpy ride as they navigate these uncertain waters.