LeagueNews.co | Cooper McEnroe
Jarome Luai made a subtle jab at Lachlan Galvin on social media after the five-eighth was dropped from the Wests Tigers team following reports that the captain had declined a new five-year, $5 million deal.
The decision left fans shocked and speculation swirling about where Galvin would end up next.
Former director Lee Hagipentalis revealed that Galvin was 'unsettled' and looking for a change, leading to the club confirming his departure at the end of the 2026 season.
There were calls for coach Benji Marshall to promote Latu Fainu to the No.6 jersey in Galvin's absence, and he ultimately left the five-eighth out of the team to play the Parramatta Eels.
Luai's social media post with the caption 'Team first' appeared to be a commentary on Marshall's decision and a hint at the team putting their interests ahead of individual players.
According to veteran NRL reporter Buzz Rothfield, Luai and Api Koroisau approached Marshall after the news about Galvin's departure to address any potential distractions ahead of the weekend.
Rothfield claimed that the leadership group, which included Luai and Koroisau, made it clear to Marshall that they did not want Galvin in the team for the upcoming game.
Rothfield stated, "They do not want this 19-year-old kid in the football side.
So Benji took it to Richardson and said this is the feedback I am getting from the leaders, I think I have got to run with what they want." The situation highlighted the influence of senior players like Luai in decision-making within the team.
Overall, the situation with Galvin's departure shed light on the internal dynamics within the Wests Tigers team and the role played by players like Luai in shaping the team's future.
The social media post and behind-the-scenes discussions hinted at a strong team-first mentality among the players and coaching staff.