LeagueNews.co | Jason Patrick
In a dramatic turn of events, Wests Tigers playmaker Luke Brooks has taken a swipe at the club's powerbrokers ahead of his final home game.
The long-serving player has decided to reject a contract extension and will be joining rival team Manly from 2024.
Unfortunately for Brooks, his 11-year tenure at the Tigers has been plagued by mediocrity, with the team failing to make the finals throughout that period.
As a result, Brooks has often found himself as the scapegoat for the club's underperformance.
Adding insult to injury, the Tigers have gone through five permanent head coaches during Brooks' time at the club, further exacerbating the team's struggles.
This week, the Tigers announced yet another coaching change, with Tim Sheens stepping down from his role as head coach at the end of the season, handing the reins to assistant coach Benji Marshall earlier than planned.
In response to the coaching shake-up, Brooks expressed skepticism about the potential for positive change under Marshall's leadership unless there is alignment within the entire club.
He took a direct swipe at the Tigers' board, criticizing their handling of the team's 12-year finals drought.
Furthermore, Brooks voiced his frustration with the club's treatment of his own contract negotiations.
He revealed that he was given a deadline to sign an extension while still considering Manly's offer.
This rushed decision-making process left Brooks and his camp feeling frustrated and dissatisfied.
As Brooks prepares for his final home game with the Tigers, his parting shot serves as a reminder of the underlying issues within the club.
With a new coach set to take charge next season, it remains to be seen if the Tigers can finally turn their fortunes around and provide their loyal fans with the success they have long craved.